New Temples, Old Hindu-Muslim Script, Sambhal Is Hindi TV’s Latest Prime-Time Theatre
New Age Islam News Bureau
19 December 2024
The Sambhal temple discovery and the three moortis (pictured) in a well have received breathless coverage from Hindi news media this week | Photo: YouTube screengrab/AajTak
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· New Temples, Old Hindu-Muslim Script, Sambhal Is Hindi TV’s Latest Prime-Time Theatre
· US Sanctions On Missile Programme: Islamabad Warns of 'Dangerous Implicationsfor The Strategic Stability’
· Blinken Says Syria’s Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham Should Learn from Afghanistan Taliban Isolation
· Indonesia, Egypt Keen to Promote Moderate Islam to Combat Extremism
· Controversial ‘Jesus Is Not God’ Banner Removed from Lekki Mosque Following Backlash
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India
· 'Intention Was Never to Establish a Mosque': BJP Leader Asks CM Yogi to Reclaim Ayodhya Land Given to Muslims
· Allahabad HC Adjourns Two Petitions for Forther ASI Survey of Gyanvapi Mosque Premises
· Will Form Committee to Look into Waqf Properties Issue, Says Karnataka CM
· Waqf Row: 81% Of Farmers Facing Land Encroachment Notices InKarnataka Are Muslims, Govt Says
· Shia Personal Law Board 'Unprepared' At Waqf JPC Meet, evenas Ruling Side MP Claims 'Appeasement' By Past Govts
· 5 militants killed, 2 Army soldiers injured in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam
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Pakistan
· 11 terrorists killed in separate operations in KP: ISPR
· 28,000 Pakistanis applied for ‘protection’ in EU in a year: report
· Gwadar airport set for Dec 30 inauguration
· PM's aide says govt to keep establishment in loop on talks with PTI
· Accountability court reserves verdict in £190m graft case against Imran, Bushra
· FIA, Interpol arrest six proclaimed offenders in UAE
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North America
· CAIR-MN Calls for Hate Crime Probe of Threat Targeting Minneapolis Mosque
· Jewish groups warn of antisemitic past of two speakers at large Islamic conference in Toronto
· House Ethics Committee votes to release Matt Gaetz report
· California declares emergency over virus outbreak
· US officials told to switch to encrypted communications
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Southeast Asia
· President affirms need to tap potential among Muslim-majority country
· Two Malaysian detainees from Guantanamo Bay have arrived safely - IGP
· PM Anwar: Malaysia-Turkmenistan relations boosted with new joint commission initiative
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Africa
· Ghana's Top Court Dismisses Challenge to Constitutionality of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill
· Muslim, Christian groups in Bauchi clash over location of Sayawa chiefdom headquarters
· ‘Nigerians Beg Us for Help When They Can Not Afford Rice’ – Akpabio Tells Tinubu
· Cyclone Chido kills at least 45 people in Mozambique and leaves hundreds injured
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Mideast
· We Learned That Our Trust Is in Allah, And in Türkiye —Lebanon's PM Mikati
· Iran Warns Against US, Israel Plot to Partition Muslim States
· Human Rights Watch says Israel’s deprivation of water in Gaza is act of genocide
· Israel hits ports, energy sites in Yemen after missile intercepted
· Israeli army says intercepted missile fired from Yemen
· UN humanitarian chief urges massive aid boost for Syria: AFP interview
· Turkish FM rejects Trump claim of Ankara ‘takeover’ in Syria
· What we know of the latest talks for a Gaza ceasefire
· Germany jails Syrian for 10 years for Assad-era war crimes
· Syria war monitor says 21 pro-Turkiye fighters killed near flashpoint northern town
· How Damascus residents reclaimed their city after Bashar Assad’s chaotic downfall
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Arab World
· Saudi Aid Agency KSrelief Launches Pediatric Surgical Program in War-Ravaged Sudan
· ‘Common Ground’ festival celebrates Saudi Arabia and Iraq cultures
· Riyadh governor receives newly appointed Palestinian envoy
· Saudi, Australian defense ministers meet in Riyadh
· Riyadh events industry conference draws to a close
· Saudi deputy foreign minister calls Sudanese parties to commit to Jeddah talks
· Saudi crown prince receives Iraqi PM in AlUla
· French politician visits Jeddah to strengthen ties, praises Vision 2030
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Europe
· UN Calls for Global Support for Syria’s Reconstruction
· Modern Mosque Rebuilding Plans Proposed For Blackburn
· Drone Footage Of New Issa Foundation Mosque In Blackburn
· Verdicts due for 51 men in Pelicot mass rape trial that shook France
· Russia detains Uzbek man over general's killing in Moscow
· France's ex-President Sarkozy loses corruption case appeal
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South Asia
· Afghanistan, Turkmenistan Accelerating Efforts On TAPI Project
· Yunus arrives in Cairo to join D-8 summit
· 4 killed in clash over control of Ijtema ground
· 44 Dead, 76 Injured in Ghazni Traffic Accidents
· Kam Air Launches Inaugural Direct Flights Between Kabul and Doha
· 63 Million AFN Allocated for 15 Water Management Projects in Maidan Wardak
· Islamic Emirate Ambassador Meets with Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission Chairman
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/temples-hindu-muslim-sambhal/d/134076
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New Temples, Old Hindu-Muslim Script, Sambhal Is Hindi TV’s Latest Prime-Time Theatre
Shailaja Bajpai
19 December, 2024
The Sambhal temple discovery and the three moortis (pictured) in a well have received breathless coverage from Hindi news media this week | Photo: YouTube screengrab/AajTak
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Within days of the Supreme Court’s stay on fresh suits to survey mosques for temple structures beneath them, new temples are springing up before our eyes. That too in largely Muslim-inhabited areas.
If you’ve watched Hindi television news channels for any length of time in the last few days, you would have seen a temple revealed behind closed doors in Sambhal — approximately 1.5 kilometres from the Shahi Jama Masjid, where a survey last month led to communal clashes that left at least four people dead.
The Hindi news channels hailed the mandir ‘discovery’ almost as a Eureka moment: “46-year-old temple unearthed,” reported India News. “One more temple found in Sambhal,” declared ABP News.
The next day, news arrived of a Shiva temple in Varanasi’s Madanpura that had been standing there in plain sight for 250 years, with just a simple lock on it. According to The Times of India, local Muslim residents had “no objection to the reopening of the temple or continuation of prayers in it.”
That was not all. No sooner had the police broken down the doors hiding the Hanuman temple in Sambhal, they unearthed a nearby well containing religious “moortis”. Promptly, Hindi news channels dropped the debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha—as well Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi’s `Palestine’ tote bag, which had raised BJP eyebrows in Parliament—and raced across to Sambhal.
Since Monday, there has been day-long coverage of the discovered idols and the crowds that had immediately flocked there to pray (Times Now Navbharat). On Wednesday, we were still being shown people thronging to the temple and the digging up of the “chabootra” (Aaj Tak).
“How many temples have been burnt down, buried, or hidden in Sambhal?” asked India TV.
Media frenzy, focus on the ‘other’
Since the communal disturbances in November, Sambhal and its temple trouble have remained in the news, especially on Hindi news channels, which have a large audience in Uttar Pradesh. Still, the non-stop coverage of the Hanuman temple and the three idols is exceptional.
“Idol after idol is being discovered,” reported a surprised ABP News. Other Hindi news channels displayed the same sense of awe as they focused on the idols coming out of the well.
We were treated to visuals of police cleaning idols (Aaj Tak), labourers digging the well, and devotees singing bhajans (Zee News). We met Hindu families who recounted their experiences before they fled the area during communal violence in 1978 (India News, India TV). Meanwhile, reporters roamed outside the heavily guarded temple, describing the discoveries and talking to the police and devotees (TNNB).
Hindi newspapers also covered the discovery of the temples in depth. This Dainik Bhaskar story gives a very clear picture of the idols, the well, how the temple was revealed, plank by plank—and how it had been appropriated by the “other community”. In a similar vein, an Amar Ujala article described how the temple was “freed from encroachment” by people of the “other community”.
However, for once, the communal angle was treated with a light hand. One reporter on India TV pointed out that while the temple had been boarded up, it had been preserved by the local Muslim population.
This was reiterated in much of the Hindi print media too: Jagran quoted the local qazi, who said that the temple being left intact indicated how Muslims respect other religions.
On Wednesday, The Times of India reported that Muslim residents had “started demolishing their own homes, which they had built after ‘encroaching on the temple property’.”
Electric raids & charged rhetoric
In between, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath — who frequently mentions Sambhal in his public utterances — made headlines with his Vidhan Sabha statement that “209 Hindus lost their lives in Sambhal since 1947”.
As if this wasn’t enough about Sambhal, the Hindi news media was filled with stories about “bijli chori” by Muslim residents there. India TV claimed that “1,250 FIRs” had been filed in this respect. We saw a new electricity meter being installed at the house of local Samajwadi MP Zia Ur Rahman Barq. The reporter, sarcastically, pointed out that there was a massive police contingent present simply to ensure the installation of the meter.
One did wonder whether similar action had been taken in other parts of Sambhal too, or was it just this locality? And why it received so much attention. Just to target Barq?
We know only too well that Hindi news channels report Hindu-Muslim stories daily. Most of them feature debates between Hindu and Muslim religious leaders, both sides as strident and disagreeable to each other as possible. This is routine. What it does to communal relations in the Hindi-speaking audience cannot be underestimated: it has “Danger” written all over it.
However, Sudarshan News takes it to another level. Known for its extreme views on Muslims, it never loses an opportunity to sensationalise its coverage. It even has a news segment called “Jihad News”, which carries stories about “jihadi parivar” in different cities. On Monday, it ‘reported’ that a Hindu teenager died by suicide after harassment by a ‘jihadi’.
This demonisation of Muslims should be unacceptable.
Source:theprint.in
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://theprint.in/opinion/telescope/new-temples-old-hindu-muslim-script-sambhal-is-hindi-tvs-latest-prime-time-theatre/2409389/
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US Sanctions On Missile Programme: Islamabad Warns of 'Dangerous Implicationsfor The Strategic Stability’
By Web Desk
December 19, 2024
Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch addressing a press conference in Islamabad on September 19, 2024. —Screengrab/ YouTube/ @ForeignOfficePk
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Following the United States' announcement of new sanctions concerning Pakistan's ballistic missile programme, Islamabad criticised the move as "biased," warning that it could have "dangerous implications for the strategic stability of our region and beyond."
Pakistan's forceful response comes after the US said in a statement, issued on the State Department's website, that the decision was taken “in light of the continuing proliferation threat of Pakistan’s long-range missile development”.
In its statement, the US said it was imposing additional sanctions related to Pakistan's ballistic missile programme, targeting four entities that it said were contributing to the proliferation or delivery of such weapons.
Hours later, Pakistan reacted to the US announcement regarding the implementation of sanctions on National Development Complex and three commercial entities.
"Pakistan considers the US decision to impose sanctions on NDC and three commercial entities as unfortunate and biased," the country's Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said in a statement on Thursday.
"Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are meant to defend its sovereignty and preserve peace and stability in South Asia. The latest installment of sanctions defies the objective of peace and security by aiming to accentuate military asymmetries. Such policies have dangerous implications for strategic stability of our region and beyond."
The Foreign Office stressed that the county's strategic programme is a sacred trust bestowed by 240 million people upon its leadership, adding that the sanctity of this trust, held in the highest esteem across the entire political spectrum, cannot be compromised.
"We also regret the imposition of sanctions on private commercial entities," the statement remarked.
It noted that similar listings of commercial entities in the past were based on mere doubts and suspicion without any evidence whatsoever.
While claiming strict adherence to non-proliferation norms, licensing requirement for advanced military technology to other countries have been waived off in the past, it stated.
"Such double standards and discriminatory practices not only undermine the credibility of non-proliferation regimes but also endanger regional and international peace and security," it added.
US sanctions
In the statement, the US said that the four entities were being designated for sanctions pursuant to Executive Order (EO) 13382, which targeted proliferators of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery.
"Pakistan’s National Development Complex – which is responsible for Pakistan’s ballistic missile program and has worked to acquire items to advance Pakistan’s long range ballistic missile program – and Affiliates International, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, and Rockside Enterprise – which have worked to supply equipment and missile‐applicable items to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, including its long range missile program – are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 Section 1(a)(ii) for having engaged, or attempted to engage, in activities or transactions that have materially contributed to, or pose a risk of materially contributing to, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or their means of delivery (including missiles capable of delivering such weapons), including any efforts to manufacture, acquire, possess, develop, transport, transfer, or use such items, by Pakistan," read the statement.
In September this year, Washington targeted five entities and one individual with sanctions, which were involved in the expansion of ballistic missiles and controlling missile equipment and technology to Pakistan.
Department spokesperson Matthew Miller alleged that the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry had worked with Pakistan to procure equipment for testing rocket motors for the Shaheen-3 and Ababeel systems and potentially for larger systems.
However, Pakistan categorically dismissed "unilateral" US sanctions on technology companies allegedly linked to the country's ballistic missile programme, calling them "unfair, unfounded, and uncalled-for".
Similarly, the US — in October 2023 — imposed sanctions on three Chinese companies for supplying missile-applicable items to Pakistan.
The sanctions also affected China-based firms Hubei Huachangda Intelligent Equipment Co, Universal Enterprise, and Xi’an Longde Technology Development Co. Pakistan-based Innovative Equipment and a Chinese national were sanctioned for knowingly transferring equipment under missile technology restrictions.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1263097-islamabad-warns-of-dangerous-implications-following-us-sanctions-on-missile-programme
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Blinken Says Syria’s Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham Should Learn from Afghanistan Taliban Isolation
December 19, 2024
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York on December 18, 2024. (AFP)
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NEW YORK: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Wednesday on Syria’s triumphant HTS rebels to follow through on promises of inclusion, saying it can learn a lesson from the isolation of Afghanistan’s Taliban.
The Islamist movement rooted in Al-Qaeda and supported by Turkiye has promised to protect minorities since its lightning offensive toppled strongman Bashar Assad this month following years of stalemate.
“The Taliban projected a more moderate face, or at least tried to, in taking over Afghanistan, and then its true colors came out. The result is it remains terribly isolated around the world,” Blinken said at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York.
After some initial overtures to the West, the Taliban reimposed a strict interpretation of Islamic law that includes barring women and girls from secondary school and university.
“So if you’re the emerging group in Syria,” Blinken said, “if you don’t want that isolation, then there’s certain things that you have to do in moving the country forward.”
Blinken called for a “non-sectarian” Syrian government that protects minorities and addresses security concerns, including keeping the fight against the Daesh group and removing lingering chemical weapons stockpiles.
Blinken said that HTS can also learn lessons from Assad on the need to reach a political settlement with other groups.
“Assad’s utter refusal to engage in any kind of political process is one of the things that sealed his downfall,” Blinken said.HTS
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2583578/middle-east
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Indonesia, Egypt keen to promote moderate Islam to combat extremism
December 19, 2024
President Prabowo Subianto during the bilateral meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi at the Presidential Palace in Cairo, Egypt, on Wednesday (December 18, 2024). ANTARA/HO-Presidential Secretariat/nbl.
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Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia and Egypt have agreed to promote the values of moderate Islam as a joint endeavor to counter extremism and Islamophobia across the world.
President Prabowo Subianto expressed the commitment during a bilateral meeting with his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fatah El-Sisi, at the presidential palace in Cairo on Wednesday (December 18).
"We are keen to preserve and promote a moderate version of Islam: Islam full of tolerance, Islam that protects all people in the world and is not the 'other' Islam that is full of suspicion or hatred," the Indonesian president stated.
Prabowo emphasized that Islam is a religion of peace, and its peaceful images and values must be advocated among members of the global community.
"We should dispel any suspicion or phobia against Islam. In principle, Islam is full of peace," he stressed.
Apart from discussing religious cooperation, the two leaders also deliberated on strengthening collaboration in other strategic fields, such as trade and industry, technology, education, tourism, and defense.
The president also expressed gratitude to El-Sisi for the good treatment given to Indonesian students in the country.
He expected further expansion of bilateral cooperation in the education sector, including increasing the intake of Indonesian students to study in Egyptian universities.
"As of today, we have more than 15 thousand Indonesian students studying in Egypt, most of them enrolled at Al-Azhar," Prabowo told Al-Sisi.
President Prabowo arrived in Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday (December 17). Prabowo is expected to meet President Al-Sisi and attend the Developing-8 (D-8) Summit during his time in the country.
Apart from meeting President Al-Sisi, Prabowo met the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb, and Indonesian students at Al-Azhar University on Wednesday.
Source:antaranews.com
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https://en.antaranews.com/news/338586/indonesia-egypt-keen-to-promote-moderate-islam-to-combat-extremism
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Controversial ‘Jesus is not God’ banner removed from Lekki mosque following backlash
19th December 2024
By Makua Ubanagu
'Jesus is not God' banner at Lekki Central mosque
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A banner displayed at the gate of the Lekki Central Mosque in Lagos State, which sparked widespread debate and criticism on social media, has been removed.
This was confirmed on Wednesday by a member of the Lekki Muslim community identified as Tunde Alabi, in a video shared online.
“My name is Tunde Alabi. I noticed that there was a banner in front of our mosque causing some controversies. I sent a message to the mosque committee, and they informed me that it had been removed. I came here personally to check, and I can confirm it has actually been removed,” Alabi said.
The banner, which had the inscription, “Jesus Christ is not God. He is a Prophet and Messenger of God!” also referenced Quran 5:72, stating, “Allah says, They have disbelieved those who say that God is the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary. While the Messiah had said, ‘Children of Israel, worship God, my Lord and your Lord. God has forbidden Paradise to anyone who worships something else besides Him.’”
Alabi added, “It has actually been removed as you can see. (0:28) You can see this other banner and the one that was removed was supposed to be here behind me. Actually, I am not speaking on behalf of the mosque. I’m speaking on behalf of myself.
“I can confirm that it has been removed, so let me see. I’m sorry for any inconvenience that must have caused, but the banner has been removed.
Thank you. So this date is the 18th of December and it’s about 6 p.m. Thank you.”
The message on the banner, which quickly went viral, triggered heated reactions online. Some users condemned it as disrespectful to Christianity and blasphemous, while others defended the statement as a factual representation of Islamic beliefs.
A Nigerian actress, Wumi Tuase, expressed her disapproval, saying, “I found it very weird that Lekki Central Mosque has this in front of their gate.” Similarly, a user, Fisayo Ojabodu, tweeted, “The banner is disrespectful to other people’s religion and is propagating a foolish agenda.”
Another user, Adesuwa, described the message as blasphemy.
However, some supported the banner’s content. One commenter, Olawale, remarked, “The message on the banner is true.”
Another user, Abdul’fattah Muhdl’awwal, added, “Jesus himself never said he is God. The quote in that banner is the fact and not blasphemous.”
The controversy also reignited discussions about religious tolerance and freedom of expression in Nigeria.
A user, ChristTheLighthouse, urged Christians to remain peaceful, stating, “Our Lord and saviour received criticism, backlash, rejection, and even insults up to the point of death. The gospel is never by force, war, coercion, or propaganda.”
Source:punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/controversial-jesus-is-not-god-banner-removed-from-lekki-mosque-following-backlash/#google_vignette
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India
'Intention was never to establish a mosque': BJP leader asks CM Yogi to reclaim Ayodhya land given to Muslims
Dec 18, 2024
NEW DELHI: BJP leader Rajneesh Singh has written to Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, asking the government to take back the land allotted for the construction of mosque in Ayodhya. He claimed that the 'intention was never to establish a mosque' since the Supreme Court's verdict in 2019.
The top court's five-judge bench, led by then Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, had settled the decades-old Ayodhya dispute on November 9, 2019. The judgment allowed the construction of a Ram temple at the site of the demolished Babri Masjid and directed the allocation of a five-acre plot in Ayodhya's Dhannipur area for the construction of a mosque.
The Sunni Central Waqf Board after court's decision, established the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation to oversee the construction of the mosque on the allotted land.
However, Singh alleged in his letter, that the Muslim community made no real effort to build the mosque but was instead trying to "create discord under the pretext of constructing one."
"In compliance with the Supreme Court's order, the land allocated to Sunni Central Waqf Board in Ayodhya is being used by the mosque's responsible persons for other purposes. The Muslim community's intention was never to construct the mosque but rather to keep the disturbance and disorder alive under the guise of a mosque. However, this has not been possible due to your leadership," he said in the letter to UP CM.
He also claimed that "a mosque is not necessary for offering prayers" and accused the Muslim community of trying to keep tensions alive in the name of the mosque.
Speaking to PTI, Singh said, "The Muslim community only wants to preserve Babur’s legacy through this mosque and manipulate Hindu sentiments in the name of the Babri Masjid."
Athar Husain, the secretary of the Ayodhya Masjid Trust, declined to comment on the issue when contacted by PTI news agency.
In a similar controversial move in 2022, Singh filed a petition in the Allahabad high court, claiming that the Taj Mahal was originally a Shiva temple called "Tejo Mahalaya.
Source:indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
"https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/intention-was-never-to-establish-a-mosque-bjp-leader-asks-cm-yogi-to-reclaim-ayodhya-land-given-to-muslims/articleshow/116430336.cms
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Allahabad HC Adjourns Two Petitions for Forther ASI Survey of Gyanvapi Mosque Premises
Namita Bajpai
18 Dec 2024
LUCKNOW: The Allahabad High Court on Wednesday adjourned two petitions seeking directions to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to undertake further surveys at the Gyanvapi mosque premises.
This follows the Supreme Court of India's interim order dated 12 December restraining all courts from passing any final order or directive for the survey of mosques.
The single-judge bench of Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal directed that the matters be listed for further hearing on 24 February 2025, a week after the apex court is scheduled to hear a batch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Places of Worship Act, 1991.
The Act prohibits the conversion of the religious character of places of worship from their status as of 15 August 1947.
The first petition was filed by Rakhi Singh, urging the court to direct the ASI to survey the 'Wuzukhana' (ablution pond) area on the mosque premises. The area around the Wuzukhana remains sealed following the Supreme Court's order, issued after a purported Shivling-like structure was found during a Varanasi court-ordered survey in May 2023.
The second petition, with a similar plea, was filed on behalf of Lord Adi Vishweshwar, represented by his next friend, Advocate Vijay Shankar Rastogi. Rastogi claimed in his plea that the 'Swayambhu Jyotirling' lies beneath the main dome of the Gyanvapi mosque.
Both petitions challenged the Varanasi court's October 2023 order, which refused to direct the ASI to conduct a survey of the entire premises of the Gyanvapi mosque.
Justice Agarwal stated that further proceedings in these matters would remain contingent upon the Supreme Court's upcoming decision.
Source:newindianexpress.com
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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Dec/18/allahabad-hc-adjourns-petitions-for-asi-survey-of-gyanvapi-mosque-premises
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Will Form Committee to Look into Waqf Properties Issue, Says Karnataka CM
19.12.24
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that he is ready to form a committee headed by a retired judge to look into the Waqf properties issue.
The chief minister also assured the Karnataka Assembly that the government will not remove those temples which are built on Waqf properties. In case notices have been served to them, then they will be withdrawn, he said.
Replying to the question raised by the opposition BJP on the Waqf land issue in the ongoing Assembly session on Wednesday, the chief minister said, "Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda has given a detailed reply to the charges of the opposition party.
"If they are not content with our reply, the government is ready to form a committee headed by a retired judge," the chief minister told the house.
He also made it clear that the matter is not a prestige issue.
Siddaramaiah said the central government had enacted the Waqf Act in 1954, which the state government cannot amend.
"The BJP-led government was in power in the state from 2008 to 2013 and from 2019 to 2023. The BJP has been in power at the Centre since 2014. Then, without thinking about amending the Wakf Act, they are now raising a controversy,” he alleged.
Siddaramaiah said the BJP, in its election manifesto, had said that it would discuss with Muslim religious leaders and clear and protect the encroached Waqf properties.
The government has clearly answered all the questions of the opposition. This should remove the confusion among the people, he added.
Siddaramaiah also assured the House that the government will not touch Waqf lands sanctioned under the Inam Cancellation and Land Reforms Act.
According to him, of the total 1.28 lakh acres of Waqf property, 47,263 acres are under the Inam Cancellation and 23,623 acres under the Land Reforms Act, and 3,000 acres have been used for public purposes. About 17,969 acres of Waqf land has been encroached on by private individuals.
"There is a Supreme Court order to protect these. Once it is registered as a Waqf property, it will always be a Waqf property," he said.
During a discussion on the issue of the Waqf Board issuing eviction notices to farmers, temples and many other individuals, the chief minister said, "If temples have been built on Waqf properties then we will not remove them. I am making it very clear. In case any notice has been issued, they (notices) will be withdrawn." As the raging Waqf issue echoed in the Assembly with the BJP raising it, Waqf and Minority Affairs Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan clarified that if notices were given to farmers and temples then they would be withdrawn.
The chief minister too reiterated Khan's statement and said no farmer will be evicted from the land they have been tilling.
BJP legislator Araga Jnanendra demanded that the properties mentioned in the government records as those of Waqf should also be removed as the mere cancelling of notices will not serve the purpose.
Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka justified the demand by saying that 110 Kuruba families in the Krishna Raja constituency in Siddaramaiah's home district of Mysuru had been running from pillar to post to get the notices revoked.
They have submitted several memoranda to Siddaramaiah, but to no avail, he said, adding there were hundreds of such instances where people were facing hardships due to such notices.
Khan reminded the BJP that in its manifesto in 2014, there was a promise to remove encroachment on Waqf properties.
The chief minister underlined the need to save the Waqf properties, saying there were 1.10 lakh acres of such properties in the state which has now been reduced to just 20,000 acres due to various provisions of law such as the Inam Abolition Act as well as encroachment.
Jnanendra said, "We (BJP) too support saving the Waqf properties but our point is why notices were given now." Siddaramaiah said the situation was such that there was a need to save the properties and notices were given as there is a central law for it.
The clarification was necessary now because he explained that a march was taken out from Bidar by the Vijayapura BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal from Bidar.
"There is a political split in the BJP but I won't discuss your internal matter," Siddaramaiah quipped.
He referred to the differences between Yatnal and BJP state chief B Y Vijayendra. As a show of strength, Yatnal decided to take out a march from Bidar to Chamarajanagar with the support of 12 senior BJP leaders including MP and MLAs.
He accused the BJP of politicising the issue. He reminded that despite the attempt to communalise the atmosphere in the state, the BJP lost the recent bypolls in all three assembly segments, Channapatna, Sandur and Shiggaon.
Not satisfied by the explanation given by the Congress government, the BJP legislators staged a walkout from the assembly.
Source:telegraphindia.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/will-form-committee-to-look-into-waqf-properties-issue-says-cm-siddaramaiah/cid/2071754
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Waqf row: 81% of farmers facing land encroachment notices in Karnataka are Muslims, govt says
Dec 19, 2024
The Karnataka government revealed on Wednesday that of the 11,204 farmers who received notices from the Waqf Board over land encroachment, around 81 per cent are Muslim, with only 2,080 farmers from the Hindu community.
According to Indian Express, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that a committee, led by a retired high court judge, would be formed to examine whether temples and land cultivated by farmers fall under waqf assets.
The chief minister also assured the Karnataka Assembly that the government will not remove those temples which are built on Waqf properties. In case notices have been served to them, then they will be withdrawn, he said.
Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, speaking on behalf of the government, explained that out of the 20,000 acres of waqf land in Karnataka, only 4,500 acres are cultivable, making up just 0.006% of the total agricultural land in the state. He accused the BJP of spreading misinformation regarding Muslims encroaching on Hindu land.
The Waqf Act, established before Independence, was further explained by Gowda, who highlighted that much of the waqf land had been redistributed to farmers under the Land Revenue Act and Inam Abolition Act. The current waqf land stands at 20,054 acres, significantly reduced from the 1.12 lakh acres listed in a 1974 gazette notification, the report added.
This announcement came after the BJP staged a walkout, demanding that Housing, Waqf and Minority Affairs Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan address all queries. The BJP also called for the withdrawal of the 1974 notification. Siddaramaiah rejected this, pointing out that the notification was based on the Central Waqf Act, which the state government cannot amend.
In response to concerns over encroachment notices served to temples, Siddaramaiah assured that any notices issued to temples and farmers would be withdrawn. The ongoing debate saw a sharp exchange between the ruling and opposition benches, with the BJP accusing the government of politicizing the waqf issue.
Source:hindustantimes.com
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https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/bengaluru-karnataka-waqf-row-81-of-farmers-facing-land-encroachment-notices-are-muslims-govt-says-101734582465093.html
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Shia Personal Law Board 'Unprepared' At Waqf JPC Meet, evenas Ruling Side MP Claims 'Appeasement' By Past Govts
December 18, 2024,
Representatives of the All India Shia Personal Law Board (AISPLB) on Wednesday brought 13 points of objection to the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf Amendment Bill that the government proposes to pass in Parliament to amend the existing law. However, sources said that the officials deposing could not put their points across with clarity.
Members of Parliament from the ruling side questioned the objections of the officials, but they could not counter the questions asked by the MPs. Sources said the AISPLB officials informed the panel that they would respond to the questions later.
“The officials were extremely confused and could not even put out solid grounds for objecting to certain provisions within the proposed law," a member of the committee told CNN-News18.
Those aware of the development said that the AISPLB officials argued that they had been informed about the meeting at very short notice and, therefore, they were not completely prepared. The JPC chairperson communicated to the officials that they should be ready to depose if required before the committee again or submit the responses to the questions in writing.
Sources said that during the meeting, while the AISPLB officials argued that the bill was against the Muslim community, a Member of Parliament from the ruling side countered this, saying that all that the governments of the past have done is “appeasement". The MP went on to say that political parties in the opposition benches used the Muslim community only as a vote bank. He added that for the first time, the government of the day has thought about the welfare of the Muslim community and the empowerment of its poor and women.
Several members from the opposition benches objected to what the ruling side MP said, maintaining that he was crossing the brief of the meeting and was trying to make this a political issue. The chairman stepped in to stop the brief argument.
After the end of the meeting, JPC chairman Jagdambika Pal told the media, “Officials from the Shia Personal Board had deposed before the panel. They have given 13 points of objection to the bill in its present form. The committee is going to examine their observations and, if required, ask them to come before the panel again."
This JPC, which had the bill referred to it in August this year, was meant to submit its report to Parliament in the ongoing winter session. However, the Lok Sabha speaker has allowed its extension up to the last day of the upcoming budget session of Parliament.
Source:news18.com
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https://www.news18.com/india/shia-personal-law-board-unprepared-at-waqf-jpc-meet-even-as-ruling-side-mp-claims-appeasement-by-past-govts-ws-b-9160931.html
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5 militants killed, 2 Army soldiers injured in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam
by Bashaarat Masood
December 19, 2024
At least five militants were killed and two Indian Army personnel injured in a gunfight in an orchard in South Kashmir’s Kulgam on Thursday.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police said while they have located the bodies of the five militants, they are yet to recover them, and their identity can be ascertained only later.
Officials said a joint team of J-K Police and Army cordoned off the Kadder village in South Kashmir’s Kulgam after the inputs about the presence of militants in the area. The police said as they were zeroing in on the target, the hiding militants rushed out of a house, fired indiscriminately on the forces and tried to break the security cordon. The joint team of the security forces retaliated leading to a gunfight.
Police sources said they had inputs about the presence of four to five militants in the village. They added that they are yet to recover the militants’ bodies but they are most likely the locals.
This is the second major gunfight in Kulgam this year. On July 8, six militants and two soldiers were killed in two separate gunfights in the district.
Source:indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jammu-and-kashmir-kulgam-encounter-militants-army-9733523/
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Pakistan
11 terrorists killed in separate operations in KP: ISPR
December 18, 2024
Security forces have killed 11 terrorists in three separate operations carried out across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the military’s media wing said on Wednesday.
A statement from the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the operations took place a day ago and today.
It said the first intelligence-based operation (IBO) was carried out in Tank district in which seven terrorists were “sent to hell” after security forces engaged them at their location.
Similarly, two terrorists were killed by security forces in another IBO in North Waziristan’s Datta Khel area.
The ISPR said a third encounter took place in Mohmand district’s Mamad Gat in which two more terrorists were killed after an “intense fire exchange”.
It added that weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain militants who were actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against the security forces as well as innocent civilians.
The ISPR said sanitisation operations were underway to eliminate any other terrorists.
“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country”.
The country has witnessed a sharp uptick in the number of attacks targeting security forces, other law enforcement agencies, and security checkpoints, particularly in Balochistan and KP.
Attacks escalated after the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) broke a fragile ceasefire agreement with the government in 2022 and vowed to target security forces.
The ISPR said last week that a total of 43 terrorists, 18 in KP and 25 in Balochistan, were “sent to hell” by security forces during extensive IBOs conducted in the provinces since Dec 9, causing a “major setback” to the TTP and other terrorist groups operating in Balochistan.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1879547/11-terrorists-killed-in-separate-operations-in-kp-ispr
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28,000 Pakistanis applied for ‘protection’ in EU in a year: report
Amin Ahmed
December 19, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Pakistanis lodged 28,000 applications for international protection in the European Union Plus countries between October 2023 and October this year, the EU’s Agency for Asylum (EUAA) said in a Pakistan-specific report released on Wednesday.
The monthly figures have followed a downward trend since reaching a peak in October last year, when Pakistanis lodged around 3,400 applications. The number for October this year stands at 1,900.
Italy was the main receiving country for asylum applications by Pakistanis, followed at a distance by France, Greece and Germany.
According to the “Country Focus on Pakistan Report”, EU Plus countries issued around 20,000 decisions at first instance on Pakistani applications, with just 12 per cent of the applicants being granted refugee status or subsidiary protection.
At the end of October this year, there were nearly 34,000 decisions pending at first instance, according to the report.
The report outlines the political and security context in Pakistan, the main actors involved in shaping it, the role of the judiciary, as well as the treatment of certain groups of the country’s population.
It provides an overview of the political and security context of the country, the treatment of certain profiles and groups of the country’s population and the situation of Afghan refugees.
With an estimated 2.4 million people experiencing forced labour or forced marriage, Pakistan is rated as one of the countries with the highest vulnerability to modern slavery in the region.
The country is located on a major trafficking route, including trade in human organs.
Despite having laws in place to combat trafficking in human beings, the country’s fragile democracy and poor state of accountability were said to have hindered an effective enforcement of those laws.
As of 2023, Pakistan did not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking, although the government has made significant efforts to this end.
However, corruption and complicity of state officials in trafficking crimes have hampered law enforcement action and created a culture of impunity.
Bonded labour
The main human trafficking issue in Pakistan is bonded labour (or debt-bondage). Estimates of people affected by this evil range between three million and 4.5m.
The system of debt-bondage is based on a traditional practice of giving `Peshgi’, or Begar, a loan given to a labourer.
Repayment of such loans is said to be virtually impossible due to high interest rates and exploitative practices of creditor-employers.
Due to weak implementation of the law, authorities have failed to protect individual victims of bonded labour.
The report says that violence in Pakistan has escalated since October last year, particularly in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Groups such as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) have intensified their “insurgent activities”.
The Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISKP), an offshoot of the militant Islamic State (IS) group, has also intensified its activities and dissemination of propaganda. It even makes use of artificial intelligence (AI) to spread its narrative.
By September this year, there were over three million Afghans residing in Pakistan. The government’s Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP) has led to the return of 738, 583 Afghans and resulted in arrest, harassment, and an increasingly hostile environment for Afghans.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1879618/28000-pakistanis-applied-for-protection-in-eu-in-a-year-report
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Gwadar airport set for Dec 30 inauguration
By Tariq Abul Hasan
December 19, 2024
KARACHI: The New Gwadar International Airport is set to be inaugurated on December 30, sources told Geo News, marking a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructure development.
The decision was taken on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the sources said.
The national carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), will operate the airport's first commercial flight, marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity.
Final preparations are underway, with a recent five-hour meeting between PIA and the Airports Authority finalising key operational matters.
The sources revealed that PIA will deploy staff and essential equipment, including check-in systems, in the coming days to ensure smooth operations from day one.
The airport, constructed with $246 million in Chinese investment, is expected to boost trade and tourism in the region. For the first year, no fees will be charged to PIA, a gesture aimed at promoting operational stability.
Equipped with a large runway and advanced terminal building, the airport is capable of accommodating all types of large aircraft.
The airport is expected to significantly boost trade and economic development in the region, positioning Gwadar as a key hub for commerce and connectivity.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1263196-new-gwadar-airport-set-for-30-december-inauguration
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PM's aide says govt to keep establishment in loop on talks with PTI
By Web Desk
December 18, 2024
The government will keep the establishment on board during its potential talks with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), said Adviser to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah.
The PM's aide made these comments while speaking on Geo News programme 'Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath' on Wednesday amid the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the talks between the government and the opposition.
"The talks with the PTI will be subject to approval of the party chief Nawaz Sharif," said Sanaullah while responding to a question whether the government has mandate to hold talks with the Imran Khan-founded party.
He added: “Likewise whatever PTI decides [in talks with government] will be subject to the approval of PTI founder.”
The remarks come against the backdrop of prevailing ambiguity surrounding the PTI-government dialogue which have been the talk of the town ever since the party's founder, Imran Khan, formed a five-member negotiation committee.
The committee comprising NA Opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) chief Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Salman Akram Raja and Asad Qaiser has been mandated to demand the release of "political prisoners" facing trial and the constitution of a judicial commission to probe the events of May 9, 2023 and a late-night crackdown on the PTI protesters on November 26.
The former ruling party had even announced launching a civil disobedience movement — which now has been deferred by Khan for a "few days" on the "PTI leaders' request".
Earlier today, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq expressed readiness to play his role in prospective parleys between the treasury and opposition benches.
Sanaullah, while speaking during the interview today, said that they had talked to the speaker and the negotiations can start by Sunday.
"The prime minister had clearly said in the House that he is ready to discuss every issue," he said.
The adviser to the PM said that the PTI can fulfil its desire if it is in a hurry to launch a civil disobedience movement. However, he added, the party will not gain anything from it and it will fail.
Sanaullah further said that no offer was made to release the PTI founder. He stressed that political issues are resolved only through dialogue.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1262993-establishment-to-stay-on-board-during-pti-govt-talks-pms-aide
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Accountability court reserves verdict in £190m graft case against Imran, Bushra
By Web Desk
December 18, 2024
An accountability court in Rawalpindi on Wednesday reserved its verdict in the £190 million corruption case against PTI founder Imran Khan, and his wife Bushra Bibi.
Judge Nasir Javed Rana reserved the ruling as counsels of PTI founder Khan and his wife concluded their final arguments in the case. The prosecution team, however, completed its arguments a day earlier.
Verdict in the high-profile case will be announced on December 3, announced the accountability judge.
During the one-year long trial, National Accountability Bureau (NAB) recorded testimonies of 35 witnesses, including former principal secretary Azam Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ex-chief minister Pervez Khattak and former federal minister Zubaida Jalal.
The incarcerated ex-premier and former first lady were indicted in the high-profile corruption case on February 27 last year.
At the outset of today’s hearing, NAB Prosecutor Amjad Pervez, while terming the £190m graft case as the biggest in the country’s history, argued that the procedure to adjust the amount was against the rules.
“Our case is about obtaining illegal benefits,” he told the court.
Defence counsel Barrister Salman Safdar claimed that the anti-graft watchdog could not establish “crime” in the case so far as the amount was with the government.
“Nobody received benefits or suffered loss in the case.”
Referring to the Al-Qadir Trust University, the lawyer said that “social work” was being used for political victimisation.
Terming his clients innocent, he said: “PTI founder and Bushra Bibi didn’t get any financial benefit.”
What is £190 million case?
The NAB had filed the reference against Khan, Bushra, and others in December 2023.
The couple is facing a NAB inquiry related to a settlement between the PTI government and a property tycoon, which reportedly caused a loss of £190 million to the national exchequer.
As per the charges, Khan and other accused allegedly adjusted Rs50 billion — £190 million at the time — sent by the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) to the Pakistani government as part of the agreement with the property tycoon.
Bushra was nominated as an accused in the case for being a trustee of the Al-Qadir Trust.
They are also accused of getting undue benefit in the form of over 458 kanals of land at Mouza Bakrala, Sohawa, to establish Al Qadir University.
During the PTI government, the NCA seized assets worth £190 million from the property tycoon in Britain.
The UK agency said the assets would be passed to the government of Pakistan and the settlement with the Pakistani property tycoon was “a civil matter, and does not represent a finding of guilt”.
Subsequently, then-prime minister Khan got approval for the settlement with the UK crime agency from his cabinet on December 3, 2019, without disclosing the details of the confidential agreement.
It was decided that the money would be submitted to the Supreme Court on behalf of the tycoon.
Subsequently, the Al-Qadir Trust was established in Islamabad a few weeks after the PTI-led government approved the agreement with the property tycoon.
This is a developing story and is being updated with more details.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1262946-accountability-court-reserves-verdict-in-190m-graft-case-against-imran-bushra
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FIA, Interpol arrest six proclaimed offenders in UAE
December 19, 2024
LAHORE: The Federal Investigation Agency’s National Central Bureau (NCB) Interpol has arrested six ‘dangerous proclaimed offenders’ in the UAE who were wanted for serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder and robbery in Pakistan.
The suspects were handed over to the FIA Lahore on Wednesday. They are Babar Waseem, Taj Rasool, Abdul Haseeb Khan, Qaiser Mahmood, Nadeem Afzal and Muhammad Zeeshan.
According to the FIA, Babar Waseem and Abdul Haseeb had been wanted by Gujranwala police since 2022, while Qaiser Mahmood had been on the run since 2014.
Babar Waseem was wanted in a case registered at Cantonment police station, Abdul Haseeb at Civil Lines police station and Qaiser Mahmood at Kamoke police station in Gujranwala.
Nadeem Afzal had been wanted by Kunjah police station, Gujrat, since 2021.
Taj Rasool was wanted in a 2021 case registered at Jampur police station, Rajanpur district.
Muhammad Zeeshan had been wanted since 2014 in a murder case registered at Delhi Gate police station, Multan.
The suspects fled abroad after committing heinous crimes. The FIA NCB Interpol had issued red notices for their arrests.
“The operation to apprehend these criminals was made possible due to close coordination between Interpol Islamabad and Interpol Abu Dhabi. Following their arrest, the suspects were handed over to Punjab Police authorities by FIA Immigration Lahore,” the federal investigation agency said and added the FIA NCB Interpol, equipped with advanced technology, maintains 24/7 global connectivity to track and apprehend criminals.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1879590/fia-interpol-arrest-six-proclaimed-offenders-in-uae
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North America
CAIR-MN Calls for Hate Crime Probe of Threat Targeting Minneapolis Mosque
December 18, 2024
The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) today called on state and federal law enforcement authorities to investigate a reported threat targeting a Minneapolis mosque as a hate crime.
On Friday, the Abubakar As-Saddique Islamic Center (AAIC) in Minneapolis received an online threat of violence targeting worshipers at the mosque. Under police direction, all weekend activities at the mosque were canceled. Minneapolis police later determined that the threat was not credible.
There have been more than 40 similar incidents targeting state mosques in the past three years and this is the 15th incident in 2024, with an estimated over $3 million in damages. Minnesota leads the nation in such hate incidents.
“We condemn this reported threat targeting a faith community and urge local, state and federal law enforcement authorities to investigate the incident as a possible hate crime,” said CAIR-MN Executive Director Jaylani Hussein. “The Muslim community will not be intimidated by threats of violence and will instead continue practicing their faith.”
Hussein added that CAIR-Minnesota is working for expanding state funding to support the federal non-profit security grant to support community safety and increase safety and prevention efforts at states targeted non-profits including houses of worship.
He noted that yesterday, CAIR-MN condemned neo-Nazi antisemitic vandalism targeting a synagogue in Minneapolis.
Hussein asked houses of worship to utilize CAIR’s Best Practices for Mosque and Community Safety guide, which contains security advice applicable to institutions of all faiths.
From January to June 2024, CAIR documented 4,951 incoming bias complaints nationwide, a 69 percent increase over the same period in 2023.
Earlier this year, CAIR’s national office released its 2024 civil rights report, which revealed the highest number of complaints it has ever received in its 30-year history. Titled “Fatal: The Resurgence of Anti-Muslim Hate,” the report documented 8,061 complaints. Nearly half of all complaints received in 2023 were reported in the final three months of the year.
Source:cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-mn-calls-for-hate-crime-probe-of-threat-targeting-minneapolis-mosque/
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Jewish groups warn of antisemitic past of two speakers at large Islamic conference in Toronto
Dec 18, 2024
Two Jewish groups are calling on organizers of a large Islamic conference scheduled for downtown Toronto this weekend to cancel two planned speakers, citing previous statements deemed antisemitic.
Reviving the Islamic Spirit (RIS) is an annual convention that, over two decades, has become one of North America’s largest Muslim meetings.
This year, 32 speakers are scheduled over three days with an expected audience of more than 40,000 from Dec. 20 to Dec. 23.
Several speakers on the schedule have been criticized over the years for their stance on women’s rights and gay rights, and for advocating for Sharia law, but this year two speakers have brought particular concern from the Canadian Antisemitism Education Foundation, a charitable organization, and Tafsik Organization, a Jewish civil rights group.
“In our ongoing efforts to foster positive interfaith relations, uphold Canadian values, and combat hatred in all its forms, we wish to bring to your attention the scheduled participation of two speakers,” officials from the two groups say in a letter sent to conference organizers and provided to National Post.
The letter objects to the participation of two American speakers: Imam Yasir Qadhi and Imam Omar Suleiman.
“We have come across troubling information regarding antisemitic messages shared by both individuals,” the organizations say in their letter.
“Hatred has no place in our society, and it must be addressed unequivocally. We strongly urge you to reconsider and revoke the invitations extended to these speakers due to their public expressions of antisemitism.
“Their presence at the convention could further divide Canadian society and undermine the goodwill we strive to build among our communities.”
Organizers of the RIS conference said the letter’s concerns are taken seriously but said they remain confident the list of speakers will pose no problems.
“We at RIS unequivocally stand against all forms of hate, and carefully vet speakers to only include those who are committed to the pursuit of peace and harmony,” RIS organizers said in a statement.
“Speakers included in the program are recognized for their scholarship, their adherence to law, and promotion of moral values. RIS organizers and speakers are clear in our stance against hate in all forms, including but not limited to islamophobia, antisemitism, racism and xenophobia.”
RIS said invited speakers agree to adhere to a conference instruction package that includes: “We will not allow for any speech that can be deemed as hate speech to be expressed from our platform and request your support in making sure that all remarks are carefully expressed. Also, any support to organizations that are listed by the Canadian Government as ‘Terrorist’ or are ‘Banned’ in Canada, will not be permitted.”
RIS acknowledged some speakers have previously faced criticism.
“While we understand that speakers invited may have made statements in the past that may be concerning or controversial, our team has verified that those do not reflect current views and have since been clarified and/or recanted,” the RIS statement said.
Qadhi, who lives in Texas, also rejects the letter’s concerns, although he said he did go on a rant 23 years ago denying the Holocaust, a time when millions of Jews were exterminated by Nazi Germany during the Second World War, for which he has since learned from, recanted, and apologized.
Qadhi is the dean of the Islamic Seminary of America, a Texas-based post-secondary religious school. He is unusual in having received his own Islamic seminary education in Saudi Arabia as well a doctorate from the U.S. Ivy League university of Yale.
His comments in 2001 in London, England, sparked outrage at the time. He was recorded saying “Hitler never intended to mass-destroy the Jews,” and recommended a book about the Holocaust “hoax.” Some years afterwards, he joined other imams and rabbis on a trip to the remains of two Nazi concentration camps — Auschwitz and Dachau — and was moved by the experience.
“My track record for the last two and half decades speaks for itself, and I have worked with many groups, Christian, Jewish and non-religious, in many aspects of civic society and interfaith dialogue,” Qadhi said.
“Additionally, and directly as a result of my own mistake, I have been a very vocal critic of antisemitism, and have continuously educated the Muslim community about the dangers of stereotyping and spreading hatred of an entire peoples. While I am a critic of specific policies of the country of Israel, even as I criticize, I continuously remind Muslims to differentiate between the policies of a nation-state, and the people who belong to a historic and ancient faith.”
He said he will not cancel his attendance at the RIS conference, which he attends most years, and he will use the platform “to once again preach tolerance and acceptance of a diverse civil society.”
Qadhi is scheduled to speak three times over the three-day conference.
Suleiman is an American Islamic scholar and founder of the Texas-based Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research. In 2018, CNN named him one of “25 influential American Muslims.” He has a huge online presence, including 3.1 million followers on Instagram and 2.8 million followers on Facebook.
Suleiman is not scheduled to attend the conference in person but will appear virtually, according to the conference program.
The letter of complaint notes comments Suleiman made in 2013 when discussing an Islamic hadith about the “Bani Isra’il,” often translated as the Children of Israel. Suleiman summarized the hadith in a video: “If it was not for Bani Israel, meat would not decay… food would never become stale.”
The letter says: “He went on to imply that the decay of food is a blessing resulting from their existence, and later suggested that the Quran uses stories of the Bani Israel to instruct Muslims on moral conduct.”
Suleiman could not be reached for comment. Emails sent to the Yaqeen Institute also went unanswered prior to deadline.
Suleiman is scheduled to join four other speakers for a session titled “A Free Palestine, Dream or Reality?: What We Can Do Here and Now.” Qadhi and Suleiman are then scheduled to appear together with two other speakers for a session called “An Ummah Awakened.”
The letter expressing concern over the two speakers’ past statements is signed by Andria Spindel, executive director of the Canadian Antisemitism Education Foundation (CAEF), and Amir Epstein, executive director of Tafsik.
Spindel said the organizations were alerted by a community member who had seen postings by the two speakers online. “CAEF’s concern is that speakers with a history of posting or speaking against the Jewish faith or Jews in general, may promote more antipathy towards Jews, here in Canada. Antisemitism is on the rise so it is a serious concern,” she said.
The annual RIS conference occasionally draws heat for views of some speakers but also attracts mainstream interest, including political leaders from the three main political parties.
In 2012, Justin Trudeau was criticized for giving a keynote speech at that year’s RIS conference, when he was a Liberal leadership candidate, as one of the conference sponsors was a Palestinian aid charity that had its charitable status revoked for funding organizations linked to Hamas, a designated terrorist organization.
In 2018, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh spoke at the RIS conference, a year after Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne did, and, in 2021, then-Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole also addressed it.
Source:ottawacitizen.com
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https://ottawacitizen.com/news/antisemitic-toronto-islamic-conference
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House Ethics Committee votes to release Matt Gaetz report
Dec 19, 2024
The US House Ethics Committee has voted to release its report on former Republican Representative Matt Gaetz, two sources familiar with the matter have told the BBC's US partner, CBS News.
The report follows a years-long investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use. It is expected to be released in the coming days.
House Republicans previously blocked Democratic efforts to unveil the results of the report into the former Florida representative, but during a vote on 5 December, two Republicans voted to release the report, according to CBS.
Gaetz, who has denied any wrongdoing, said on Wednesday: "I was charged with nothing: FULLY EXONERATED. Not even a campaign finance violation. And the people investigating me hated me."
He added: "Instead, House Ethics will reportedly post a report online that I have no opportunity to debate or rebut as a former member of the body."
Gaetz resigned from Congress last month after President-elect Donald Trump said he would nominate him to lead the US Department of Justice.
But he withdrew his name from consideration for the role just a week later following a backlash from Democrats and Republicans and debate over whether to release the committee's report.
Gaetz said at the time that he hoped to avoid a "needlessly protracted Washington scuffle".
The 42-year-old has since said he will not return to Congress for the next term, instead launching a new show on the Trump-aligned One America News Network in January.
The ethics committee declined to comment on the news that it had voted to release the report, which was first reported by CNN.
It has previously said Gaetz was under investigation for sexual misconduct, illicit drug use and bribery.
A woman who attended a 2017 party with him has testified to the House committee that she saw the then-congressman having sex with a minor, according to the woman's lawyer.
The same lawyer alleged that Gaetz paid this witness and another woman to have sex with him.
In the same X post on Wednesday, Gaetz wrote: "It's embarrassing, though not criminal, that I probably partied, womanised, drank and smoked more than I should have earlier in life. I live a different life now."
He has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and has described the investigation into him as a "smear campaign".
The Department of Justice - which Trump had initially tapped Gaetz to lead - also investigated an allegation that he had sex with a minor but ultimately did not file any criminal charges against him.
Joel Greenberg, Gaetz's one-time friend, was the lone person charged in the justice department's sex trafficking investigation. He co-operated with investigators and reportedly told prosecutors information about multiple others, including Gaetz.
Greenberg is currently serving an 11-year prison sentence after agreeing to plead guilty to multiple federal charges, including underage sex trafficking, wire fraud, stalking, identity theft, producing a fake ID card, and conspiring to defraud the US government.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj30l3kxmrno
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California declares emergency over virus outbreak
18 Dec, 2024
Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency after new cases of the H5N1 avian influenza virus were detected in dairy cows in southern California, while insisting that the risk to the general public remains low.
The virus has been spreading through US dairy cattle herds since March, affecting at least 16 states. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports no confirmed human-to-human transmission so far, at least 61 human cases have been detected across the country, including 34 in California.
“This proclamation is a targeted action to ensure that government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need to respond quickly to this outbreak,” Newsom said in a statement on Wednesday. “While the risk to the public remains low, we will continue to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this virus.”
The H5N1 virus is considered particularly dangerous with regard to human infections. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded more than 860 confirmed cases since 2003, with about 53% resulting in death.
No deaths have been reported in the US as part of the current outbreak, which began in 2022 on poultry farms and led to the culling of more than 100 million birds in an attempt to control the spread of the disease. California is the first state to declare an emergency, though Colorado issued a targeted ‘disaster’ alert in July.
Newsom’s declaration follows the detection of new infections on dairy farms in southern California. The state has already implemented measures to combat bird flu by working with dairy and poultry farms to minimize employee exposure, as most cases are linked to dairy and poultry workers.
The CDC confirmed the first case of severe illness in a person due to bird flu from a Louisiana case on Wednesday. The patient was reportedly in close contact with sick and dead birds from a backyard flock.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has assured consumers that grocery-shelf beef and dairy products are safe to consume but advised against drinking raw milk.
Source:rt.com
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US officials told to switch to encrypted communications
19 Dec, 2024
The US government has warned senior officials and other “highly targeted individuals” to use encrypted messenger applications instead of ordinary phone calls and texts following a cybersecurity incident in which hackers reportedly exploited systems set up by the US authorities to wiretap Americans.
Last month, Washington accused alleged China-linked hacker group ‘Salt Typhoon’ of conducting an unprecedented cyber espionage campaign against US telecommunications companies. Beijing has repeatedly denied these allegations as baseless smears.
“This activity enabled the theft of customer call records and compromised private communications for a limited number of highly targeted individuals,” the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) stated in a new security guidance published on Wednesday.
The guidance advised “highly targeted individuals in senior government or political positions” to switch to end-to-end encrypted messaging apps for communication, along with other security-related recommendations. While the agency did not endorse any specific service, applications like Telegram, Signal, and WhatsApp provide encryption for both incoming and outgoing messages, enhancing privacy for both senders and recipients.
Last month, the CISA issued a press release attributing the security breach to actors allegedly affiliated with China – acknowledging that some of the stolen information was stored under US government surveillance protocols as part of “legal” wiretapping of American suspects.
The hack affected the private communications of certain individuals “primarily involved in government or political activity,” as well as “information subject to US law enforcement requests pursuant to court orders,” the agency noted.
US lawmakers grilled cybersecurity experts during a Senate hearing last week, seeking ways to bolster security for American telecoms after what they described as “the largest telecommunications hack in our nation’s history.”
Beijing has consistently dismissed hacking accusations from Washington. Last week, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said the US uses hacking claims to vilify China and justify unilateral sanctions.
“We urge the US to stop using cybersecurity issues to smear and vilify China and to cease imposing illicit unilateral sanctions,” Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning stated.
Source:rt.com
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Southeast Asia
President affirms need to tap potential among Muslim-majority country
December 19, 2024
Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the importance of solidarity among Muslim-majority countries in the Developing Eight (D-8) organization, which he believes should tap into common potentials in economic cooperation.
"The (organization's) purpose is to help countries develop. D-8 was founded in 1997 and consists of countries with the largest Muslim population," Prabowo stated here on Thursday.
Members of the D-8 organization are Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Turkey, and Pakistan -- key countries in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
The president highlighted that with its large population and resource reserve, D-8 countries possess the capital needed to develop economic self-sufficiency among each other, which, in turn, will strengthen solidarity among Muslim-majority countries.
Meanwhile, Prabowo highlighted potential bilateral economic cooperation with Egypt, including exporting Indonesia's palm oil to Egypt and importing phosphate from the country for fertilizer production.
"We are discussing the potential to reach a free-trade agreement with Egypt. We will need phosphate from them to produce fertilizers, while they need our palm oil," he stated.
He is also keen to tap cooperation potentials with other D-8 countries, such as Pakistan and Turkey, in strategic sectors where the countries are mutually active.
"Our focus should be to strengthen our economies for the prosperity of our people," Prabowo stressed.
President Prabowo arrived in Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday (December 17). Prabowo is expected to meet President Al-Sisi and attend the Developing-8 (D-8) Summit during his time in the country.
Apart from meeting President Al-Sisi, Prabowo also met the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb, and Indonesian students at Al-Azhar University on Wednesday.
Source:antaranews.com
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Two Malaysian detainees from Guantanamo Bay have arrived safely - IGP
BERNAMA
19-12- 2024
KUALA LUMPUR: Two Malaysians held at the Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp in Cuba for the past 18 years, have arrived safely in the country today, says Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
He said Mohammed Farik Amin, 48, and Mohammed Nazir Lep, 47, would undergo a rehabilitation process before reuniting with their families.
“Both individuals were received in good and healthy condition. They are very grateful to return home and finally reunite with their families.
“However, the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) has instructed them to undergo an assessment process and subsequently enter a comprehensive rehabilitation phase before reintegrating into society,“ he said in a statement yesterday.
According to Razarudin, both men have displayed a positive and open attitude towards the evaluation and rehabilitation process, expressing strong commitment to becoming progressive members of society.
“Everyone deserves a second chance, and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will ensure they achieve it,“ he said.
Earlier, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, in a statement, said the United States had repatriated the two Malaysians detained at the Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp since 2006.
Mohammed Farik, also known as Zaid (Zubair), and Mohammed Nazir, also referred to as Bashir Lep (Lillie), were held at the camp since 2003 for alleged involvement with militant groups Jemaah Islamiah and Al-Qaeda.
On Aug 30, 2021, Mohammed Farik and Mohammed Nazir were brought before the United States Naval Base Court at Guantanamo Bay in connection with the Bali bombing incident in Indonesia in 2002.
Source:thesun.my
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PM Anwar: Malaysia-Turkmenistan relations boosted with new joint commission initiative
19 Dec 2024
PUTRAJAYA, Dec 19 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today that Malaysia and Turkmenistan have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation through the establishment of a joint commission.
He said the foreign ministers of both nations will implement this initiative early next year to solidify their collaboration.
“We are both committed to ensuring that the level of cooperation is elevated through the establishment of a joint commission between the two countries. The foreign ministers will follow through on this collaboration early next year,” he said during a joint press conference with Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedow here.
Anwar also expressed Malaysia’s gratitude for Turkmenistan’s continued support, particularly in facilitating the operations of Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd in the Central Asian nation.
He also commended Berdimuhamedow for his comprehensive vision of development.
“I am particularly impressed by the President’s interest not only in enhancing trade and investments between the countries but also in his very comprehensive view of what development entails, including the cultural sphere, and his promotion of international peace, which we fully support,” Anwar said.
Berdimuhamedow, who is on a two-day official visit, earlier attended an official welcoming ceremony at the Perdana Putra Complex.
Meanwhile, in a joint statement, both leaders emphasised the importance of enhancing cooperation in transportation, culture, education, tourism and sports, which will contribute to strengthening relations between Malaysia and Turkmenistan.
Anwar and Berdimuhamedow also agreed that in efforts to promote people-to-people contact and understanding, exchange programmes between institutions of higher education and research institutes should be further strengthened.
They reaffirmed their commitment to promoting cooperation in higher education by welcoming the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between the public and private universities of both countries.
Both leaders also welcomed the signing of an MoU in tourism.
They also reiterated that international challenges, including the Palestine issue, must be resolved through peaceful means, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.
Anwar and Berdimuhamedow called for unimpeded access to humanitarian aid in Palestinian territories and emphasised the importance of a just and lasting solution to the challenge of bringing peace and stability to the region.
Trade between Malaysia and Turkmenistan has shown remarkable growth, with total trade from January to October 2024 surging by 74.8 per cent.
The trade value reached RM63.28 million (US$13.90 million), compared to RM36.19 million (US$7.91 million) during the same period last year.
In 2023, Turkmenistan was Malaysia’s fourth-largest trading partner among Central Asian countries, with total trade amounting to RM48.62 million (US$10.57 million).
Diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Turkmenistan were officially established in 1992. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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Africa
Ghana's Top Court Dismisses Challenge to Constitutionality of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill
19 December 2024
In the latest blow to the LGBTQ community in Africa, Ghana’s top court has dismissed two cases challenging the constitutionality of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
The ruling paves the way for the president to sign into law what is one of the continent’s most restrictive pieces of anti-LGBTQ legislation.
All seven judges on the Supreme Court panel ended separate petitions against it, filed by broadcast journalist and lawyer Richard Dela Sky and academic Amanda Odoi.
The bill, which has been condemned by the United Nations and human rights groups, was passed earlier this year by Ghanaian lawmakers.
If signed into law, it will impose three years in prison for people identifying as LGBT and five years for forming or funding LGBT groups.
President Nana Akufo-Addo, whose term in office ends on 7 January, had delayed signing it pending the outcome of the Supreme Court challenge.
But the judges said the case could not be reviewed until it had been signed it into law.
Opposition leader and incoming president, John Mahama, has expressed support for the bill.
Odoi and Sky says they are disappointed by the ruling and will examine their options after studying the full judgement.
If it becomes law, it is likely to face further court challenges.
Source:africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2024/12/18/ghanas-top-court-dismisses-challenge-to-anti-lgbt-bill/
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Muslim, Christian groups in Bauchi clash over location of Sayawa chiefdom headquarters
December 18, 2024
By Timi Owolabi
Muslim and Christian groups in Bauchi State are at odds over the decision to locate the headquarters of the proposed Sayawa Chiefdom in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Bala Mohammed, on Tuesday, December 9, 2024, announced the creation of the Sayawa Chiefdom and resolved to site its headquarters in Tafawa Balewa village, under the Bauchi Emirate.
However, this decision has sparked controversy, with the Bauchi State Muslim Parliament, BSMP, criticizing it as unfair and a violation of historical and administrative processes.
The BSMP argued that Tafawa Balewa is predominantly a Fulani community and suggested Bogoro as a more appropriate location for the headquarters.
Speaking on behalf of the BSMP, Mallam Yusuf Abdullahi accused the governor of disregarding recommendations and called for relocating the headquarters to ensure fairness.
“This hasty policy statement, in our estimation and critical examination of facts and figures, logic and reasoning on good governance for the common public good, amounts to a disregard for historical facts, a lack of diligence in due process, an evasive tapestry for equity and fairness, in addition to administrative policy somersaults and egocentrism,” the organization stated.
Yusuf further explained that the coalition of Muslim organizations in Bauchi State firmly supports the establishment of the chiefdom’s headquarters in any location other than Tafawa Balewa, where its original inhabitants, he claimed, were displaced and dispossessed of their lives and properties.
“As a concerned Muslim community desirous of equity and justice for the unjustly treated Muslim community of Tafawa Balewa, we call for equity and fairness—not only in the eyes of an individual wielding power and authority but also in the eyes of the general society,” Yusuf said.
On the other hand, the Assembly of Jesus Army Guard, a Christian organization, defended the governor’s decision, asserting that Tafawa Balewa is the ancestral home of the predominantly Christian Zaar, Sayawa, people.
In a statement released on Wednesday and made available to DAILY POST, the group accused the BSMP of promoting divisive and unconstitutional claims, emphasizing that Nigeria is a secular nation where no group should dominate others.
Bishop O.T. Daniel, the leader of the Assembly of Jesus Army Guard, called for fairness and equal treatment of Christians in Nigeria, highlighting years of inequality in resource allocation.
He urged Christians worldwide to support the Zaar people and ensure their rights are upheld.
Source:dailypost.ng
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‘Nigerians Beg Us For Help When They Can Not Afford Rice’ – Akpabio Tells Tinubu
18 December 2024
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has explained to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu how Nigerians seek lawmakers’ intervention as the country’s economic situation worsens.
According to him, since they are his (Tinubu’s) eyes in their various constituencies, their people run to them for help even when they find it difficult to buy rice in the market.
Naija News reports that Akpabio stated this on Wednesday in his address when President Tinubu presented the 2025 budget proposal of ₦47.9 trillion before the joint session of the National Assembly.
Akpabio reiterated that members of the National Assembly in both chambers will continue to be Tinubu’s eyes across the country, saying ‘While you cannot be everywhere, you have eyes everywhere.”
“We, the Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, are your eyes in our constituencies and every corner of Nigeria. When our constituents struggle to afford rice, they come to us. When their shoes pinch, they seek our assistance. When the economic alarm sounds, they turn to us.
“Therefore, we are committed to ensuring that you touch the hearts and pulse of Nigerians through these Appropriation Bills resonating with the sounds of hope and signalling the dawn of Nigeria’s economic rebirth,” the Senate President said.
Naija News reports that the Senate President commended Tinubu for his achievements within 18 months in office, saying Nigerians were aware of the country’s progress so far.
“Nigerians are taking notice of your remarkable achievements: you have doubled aggregate government revenues to over N18.32 trillion, reduced debt servicing expenditures from 97% to 68%, fulfilled $7.5 billion in foreign exchange obligations, increased oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day, and launched the Compressed Natural Gas initiative.
“Your administration has processed over N45.6 billion for student payments, signed the National Minimum Wage Law, and raised the national minimum wage to N70,000 a month, all while providing over N570 billion in financial support to the 36 states,” he pointed out.
Akpabio assured the President of a swift evaluation of the 2025 Appropriation Bills to pass them on time.
He added: “As expected, we will ensure that due process is followed in passing these bills. We will do what is right and justifiable, conducting public hearings to ensure that the voices of Nigerians resonate within the budget, for all budgets belong to the people. If public sentiment necessitates adjustments to specific allocations, we will respond accordingly, ensuring that such actions are not misconstrued as padding.”
Source:naijanews.com
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Cyclone Chido kills at least 45 people in Mozambique and leaves hundreds injured
18 December 2024
The United Nations says the death toll in Mozambique has risen to at least 45 with hundreds others injured following the passage on Sunday of Tropical Cyclone Chido.
More than 35 thousand houses were destroyed or severely damaged after winds of up to 260 kilometres an hour hit mainly Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces in the north.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says it has disbursed four million dollars in emergency aid for the estimated 181,000 people affected.
Emergency teams are working to provide relief to displaced families and assess the full extent of the damage.
The region is already struggling with challenges such as conflict and underdevelopment.
Many resettlement centres for people previously displaced by ongoing fighting have been severely affected.
Aid workers say the priorities are food, water, sanitation, shelter, and survival kits to help communities recover.
Source:africanews.com
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Mideast
We Learned That Our Trust Is in Allah, And in Türkiye —Lebanon's PM Mikati
December 19, 2024
Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati has expressed gratitude for Türkiye's support as his country continues to endure Israeli attacks.
Speaking at a joint news conference with his host, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in the capital, Ankara, on Wednesday, thanked Türkiye for being a steadfast ally, especially through times of crisis.
"Lebanon has been through a severe crisis, but we have learned that our trust in Allah, and in our friends, especially Türkiye, has been our strength," Mikati said.
Mikati acknowledged that the economy, society, and environment in Lebanon have suffered due to the Israeli attacks, which have continued despite a ceasefire last month following more than a year of cross-border attacks.
He emphasised the solidarity Türkiye and other Arab nations showed Beirut, adding that this has been of immense importance to Lebanon throughout the current challenging period.
Strengthening bonds
He also touched on the broader regional context, pointing to the political transformations occurring in the Middle East, including in Syria, which neighbours both Lebanon and Türkiye.
Mikati stressed the need for international pressure on Israel to halt its actions as it continues to violate the ceasefire terms.
He reaffirmed that as Lebanon endeavours through the ongoing crisis, it remains committed to supporting Syria's sovereignty, freedom, and territorial integrity.
Mikati emphasised the importance of good relations between Lebanon, Türkiye, and Syria.
He expressed confidence that, through continued cooperation, Lebanon and Türkiye will strengthen their bond and work toward a future of peace and mutual respect.
Source:trtworld.com
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Iran warns against US, Israel plot to partition Muslim states
Dec 18, 2024
Abbas Araghchi made the comments in a meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Cairo on the sidelines of the meeting of D-8 countries in Cairo, Egypt.
In the meeting, Araghchi emphasized the sensitivity of the regional situation due to the escalation of the Zionist regime's aggression, saying that, "Unfortunately, with the continued all-out support of the United States and some Western countries, we are witnessing that the aggressor regime of Israel is destroying Syria's defense and economic infrastructure and continuing its crimes in Gaza and Lebanon."
Referring to the joint statement of the guarantor countries of the Astana process and several Arab countries in the region in Doha in support of the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria, the Iranian Foreign Minister emphasized the concern of all countries in the region about the current situation in Syria. He added that, "We are witnessing an American and Zionist plot to divide and weaken Islamic countries in favor of the Zionist regime."
Araghchi further warned against the re-emergence of ISIL terrorism in the region.
The Pakistani deputy prime minister and foreign minister, for his part, pointed to the recent ECO meeting in Iran's Mashhad and expressed hope that the results and agreements reached at the meeting will further strengthen relations between the countries in the region indifferent fields.
Referring to Pakistan's clear stance on current developments in the region, including the situation in Syria and condemnation of the Zionist regime's aggression, Ishaq Dar called for strengthening consultation and cooperation among Islamic countries to condemn these aggressions and support the people in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria.
Iran and Pakistan foreign ministers touched upon the sensitivity of the developments in the region, especially the escalation of Israeli aggression and crimes in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, and emphasized the need to seize the opportunity of the Cairo D-8 meeting to continue the synergy between major Islamic countries, especially the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan, to defend the interests and address the concerns of the countries of the region and the Islamic world.
Source:mehrnews.com
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Human Rights Watch says Israel’s deprivation of water in Gaza is act of genocide
December 19, 2024
THE HAGUE: Human Rights Watch said on Thursday that Israel has killed thousands of Palestinians in Gaza by denying them clean water which it says legally amounts to acts of genocide and extermination.
“This policy, inflicted as part of a mass killing of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, means Israeli authorities have committed the crime against humanity of extermination, which is ongoing. This policy also amounts to an ‘act of genocide’ under the Genocide Convention of 1948,” Human Rights Watch said in its report.
Israel has repeatedly rejected any accusation of genocide, saying it has respected international law and has a right to defend itself after the cross-border Hamas-led attack from Gaza on Oct. 7, 2023 that precipitated the war.
Although the report described the deprivation of water as an act of genocide, it noted that proving the crime of genocide against Israeli officials would also require establishing their intent. It cited statements by some senior Israeli officials which it said suggested they “wish to destroy Palestinians” which means the deprivation of water “may amount to the crime of genocide.”
“What we have found is that the Israeli government is intentionally killing Palestinians in Gaza by denying them the water that they need to survive,” Lama Fakih, Human Rights Watch Middle East director told a press conference.
Human Rights Watch is the second major rights group in a month to use the word genocide to describe the actions of Israel in Gaza, after Amnesty International issued a report that concluded Israel was committing genocide.
Both reports came just weeks after the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense chief for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. They deny the allegations.
The 1948 Genocide Convention, enacted in the wake of the mass murder of Jews in the Nazi Holocaust, defines the crime of genocide as “acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group.”
The 184-page Human Rights Watch report said the Israeli government stopped water being piped into Gaza and cut off electricity and restricted fuel which meant Gaza’s own water and sanitation facilities could not be used.
As a result, Palestinians in Gaza had access to only a few liters of water a day in many areas, far below the 15-liter-threshold for survival, the group said. Israel launched its air and ground war in Gaza after Hamas-led fighters attacked Israeli communities across the border 14 months ago, killing 1,200 people and taking over 250 hostages back to Gaza, according to Israeli tallies.
Israel’s campaign has killed more than 45,000 Palestinians, displaced most of the 2.3 million population and reduced much of the coastal enclave to ruins.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israel hits ports, energy sites in Yemen after missile intercepted
December 19, 2024
JERUSALEM: Israel said Thursday it struck ports and energy infrastructure it alleges are used by Houthi militants, after intercepting a missile fired by the group.
Israel’s military said it “conducted precise strikes on Houthi military targets in Yemen — including ports and energy infrastructure in Sanaa, which the Houthis have been using in ways that effectively contributed to their military actions.”
The announcement came shortly after Israel said it had intercepted a missile fired from Yemen.
Al-Masira, a media channel belonging to the Houthis, said a series of “aggressive raids” were launched in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa and the port city of Hodeidah.
It reported raids that “targeted two central power plants” in Yemen’s capital Sanaa, while in Hodeidah it said “the enemy launched four aggressive raids targeting the port... and two raids targeting” an oil facility.
The strikes were the second time this week that Israel’s military has intercepted a missile from Yemen.
On Monday, the Houthis claimed a missile launch they said was aimed at “a military target of the Israeli enemy in the occupied area of Yaffa” — a reference to Israel’s Tel Aviv area.
Also Monday, an Israeli navy missile boat intercepted a drone in the Mediterranean after it was launched from Yemen, the military said.
The Houthi militants have said they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians and pledged Monday to continue operations “until the aggression on Gaza stops and the siege is lifted.”
On December 9, a drone claimed by Houthis exploded on the top floor of a residential building in the central Israel city of Yavne, causing no casualties.
In July, a Houthi drone attack in Tel Aviv killed an Israeli civilian, prompting retaliatory strikes on the Yemeni port of Hodeidah.
The Houthis have also regularly targeted shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, leading to retaliatory strikes on Houthi targets by United States and sometimes British forces.
Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari said the group had become a “global threat,” pointing to Iran’s support for the militants.
“We will continue to act against anyone, anyone in the Middle East, that threatens the state of Israel,” he said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli army says intercepted missile fired from Yemen
December 19, 2024
JERUSALEM: The Israeli army said sirens sounded across central Israel as it intercepted a missile fired from Yemen on Thursday.
The Israeli Air Force “intercepted one missile that was launched from Yemen before it crossed into Israeli territory,” said a statement from the army, adding that there could be “falling debris from the interception.”
Source: arabnews.com
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UN humanitarian chief urges massive aid boost for Syria: AFP interview
December 19, 2024
DAMASCUS: Visiting UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher called Wednesday for a massive aid boost for Syria to respond to “this moment of hope” after the ouster of longtime strongman Bashar Assad.
“Across the country, the needs are huge. Seven in 10 people are needing support right now,” Fletcher told AFP in a telephone interview as he visited Syria.
“I want to scale up massively international support, but that now depends on donors. The Syria fund has been historically, shamefully underfunded and now there is this opportunity,” he said.
“The Syrian people are trying to come home when it’s safe to do so, to rebuild their country, to rebuild their communities and their lives.
“We have to get behind them and to respond to this moment of hope. And if we don’t do that quickly, then I fear that this window will close.”
Half of Syria’s population were forced from their homes during nearly 14 years of civil war, with millions finding refuge abroad.
UN officials have said a $4 billion appeal for Syria aid is less than a third funded.
“There are massive humanitarian needs... water, food, shelter... There are needs in terms of government services, health, education, and then there are longer term rebuilding needs, development needs,” Fletcher said.
“We’ve got to be ambitious in our ask of donors.
“The Syrian people demand that we deliver, and they’re right to demand that we deliver,” he said. “The world hasn’t delivered for the Syrian people for more than a decade.”
As part of his visit, Fletcher met representatives of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), the Islamist rebel group which spearheaded the offensive that toppled Assad, including its leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa and interim prime minister Mohammad Al-Bashir.
Fletcher said he received “the strongest possible reassurances” from Syria’s new administration that aid workers would have the necessary access on the ground.
“We need unhindered, unfettered access to the people that we’re here to serve. We need the crossings open so we can get massive amounts of aid through... We need to ensure that humanitarian workers can go where they need to go without restriction, with protection,” he said.
“I received the strongest possible reassurances from the top of that caretaker administration that they will give us that support that we need. Let’s test that now in the period ahead.”
Assad’s government had long imposed restrictions on humanitarian organizations and on aid distribution in areas of the country outside its control.
Fletcher said that the coming period would be “a test for the UN, which hasn’t been able to deliver what we wanted to over a decade now... Can we scale up? Can we gain people’s trust?
“But it’s also a test for the new administration,” he added. “Can they guarantee us a more permissive environment than we had under the Assad regime?
“I believe that we can work in that partnership, but it’s a huge test for all of us.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Turkish FM rejects Trump claim of Ankara ‘takeover’ in Syria
December 19, 2024
ISTANBUL: Turkiye on Wednesday rejected US President-elect Donald Trump’s claim that the rebel ouster of Syrian strongman Bashar Assad was an “unfriendly takeover” by Ankara.
“We wouldn’t call it a takeover, because it would be a grave mistake to present what’s been happening in Syria” in those terms, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told broadcaster Al Jazeera in an interview.
“For Syrian people, it is not a takeover. I think if there is any takeover, it’s the will of the Syrian people which is taking over now.”
Assad fled to Russia after a lightning offensive spearheaded by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) wrested city after city from his control until the rebels reached the Syrian capital earlier this month.
On Monday, Trump said “the people that went in (to Syria) are controlled by Turkiye and that’s ok.”
“Turkiye did an unfriendly takeover, without a lot of lives being lost,” the billionaire businessman told reporters.
Since the early days of the anti-Assad revolt that erupted in 2011, Turkiye has been seen as a key backer of the opposition to his rule.
It has hosted political dissenters as well as millions of refugees and also backed rebel groups fighting the army.
Fidan said it would be incorrect to characterise Turkiye as the power that would rule Syria in the end.
“I think that would be the last thing that we want to see, because we are drawing huge lessons from what’s been happening in our region, because the culture of domination itself has destroyed our region,” he said.
“Therefore, it is not Turkish domination, not Iranian domination, not Arab domination, but cooperation should be essential,” he added.
“Our solidarity with Syrian people shouldn’t be characterised or defined today as if we are actually ruling Syria. I think that would be wrong.”
In the same interview Fidan warned Syria’s new rulers to address the issue of Kurdish forces in the country, whom Ankara brands “terrorists.”
“There is a new administration in Damascus now. I think, this is primarily their concern now,” minister Hakan Fidan said.
“So, I think if they are going to, if they address this issue properly, so there would be no reason for us to intervene.”
Fidan was responding to a question amid growing rumors that Turkiye could launch an offensive on the Kurdish-held border town of Kobani, also known as Ain Al-Arab.
Local witnesses told AFP there has been an increase in the number of soldiers patrolling on the Turkish side of the border but no “unusual military activity.”
Ankara has staged multiple operations against Kurdish forces since 2016, and Turkish-backed groups have captured several Kurdish-held towns in the north in recent weeks.
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What we know of the latest talks for a Gaza ceasefire
December 19, 2024
JERUSALEM: Efforts to strike a Gaza truce and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas have repeatedly failed over key stumbling blocks, but recent negotiations have raised hope of an agreement.
On Tuesday, Washington expressed “cautious optimism” on the possibility of an “imminent deal.”
This comes following reported indirect negotiations mediated by Qatar along with Egypt and the United States.
Diplomatic sources told AFP that US President-elect Donald Trump’s recent declaration that a deal should be struck before his return to office on January 20 had an impact on the latest round of talks.
One diplomatic source said that Hamas, isolated after the weakening of its Lebanese ally Hezbollah and the overthrow of Syrian strongman Bashar Assad, is keen to reach a deal before the end of the year.
“A lot of people see (a deal) as the perfect Christmas gift,” the source said.
Another noted that since Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar’s death, Hamas leaders abroad, known as more pragmatic than the mastermind of the October 7, 2023 attack that sparked the war, have been conducting negotiations.
A high-ranking Hamas official told AFP on Tuesday that the talks were at the “final details” stage and that Qatar and Egypt would announce the agreement once negotiations end.
Israeli government spokesman David Mencer declined to comment on the proposed deal at a media briefing on Wednesday, stating “the less said the better.”
During their attack on Israel on October 7 last year, Palestinian militants led by Hamas seized 251 hostages.
Ninety-six of them are still held in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead.
Hamas officials told AFP that the current framework for a deal would see the implementation of a ceasefire and the gradual release of hostages over three phases.
In the first, six-week phase, Israeli civilian hostages and female soldiers would be released in exchange for “hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.”
The source close to Hamas said that during this phase, Israel would withdraw its forces “from west of the Rafah crossing” on the Philadelphi Corridor, a strip of land cleared and controlled by Israel along Gaza’s border with Egypt.
Israeli forces would also “partly withdraw” from the Netzarim Corridor, another, wider strip of land cleared and controlled by Israel that splits the territory in two just south of Gaza City, and gradually leave Palestinian refugee camps.
Lastly, the first phase would see the gradual return of displaced residents to Gaza City and the north via the coastal highway under Israeli army monitoring.
The second phase would see the release of Israeli male soldiers in exchange for “a number” of Palestinian prisoners, “including at least 100 with long-term sentences.”
During this phase, Israel would complete its military withdrawal but would maintain forces on the eastern and northern border areas with Israel.
Under the last phase of the proposed deal, “the war will be officially declared over” and reconstruction efforts will begin in the territory where the UN satellite agency said that 66 percent of all structures have been damaged.
Lastly, the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border would be jointly managed by the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority, in coordination with Egypt and the European Union.
Despite numerous rounds of indirect talks, Israel and Hamas have agreed just one week-long truce at the end of 2023.
Negotiations between Hamas and Israel have faced multiple challenges since then, with the primary point of contention being the establishment of a lasting ceasefire.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also repeatedly stated that he does not want to withdraw Israeli troops from the Philadelphi Corridor.
One of the diplomatic sources AFP spoke to said Israel would “never” exit the border strip, and at most would leave the small border crossing for others to manage.
Another unresolved issue is the governance of post-war Gaza.
It remains a highly contentious issue, including within the Palestinian leadership.
Israel has said repeatedly that it will not allow Hamas to run the territory ever again.
And while a Hamas official told AFP on Wednesday that “Egypt, Qatar, Turkiye, the United Nations and the United States will guarantee the implementation of the agreement,” none of them have confirmed that.
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Germany jails Syrian for 10 years for Assad-era war crimes
December 18, 2024
BERLIN: A German court handed a 10-year jail term to a Syrian former militia leader on Wednesday for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed under former president Bashar Assad.
The man, named only as Ahmad H., 47, had come to Germany in 2016 at the height of the influx of migrants to Europe.
Assad was toppled last week by Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, and Berlin has since warned that his supporters will continue to face justice in Germany for crimes they committed.
Ahmad H. was found guilty of crimes including torture, deprivation of liberty and enslavement, a spokeswoman for the higher regional court in Hamburg told AFP.
Prosecutors said he carried out the crimes between 2012 and 2015 as a local leader of the pro-government “shabiha” militia in Damascus tasked with helping to crush dissent.
The militia operated checkpoints where “people were arrested arbitrarily so that they or their family members could be extorted for money, committed to forced labor or tortured,” they said.
The fighters also plundered the homes of regime opponents, sold the spoils and kept the profits, they added, charging that Ahmad H. took part “personally in the abuse of civilians.”
When Ahmad H. was detained in Germany in July 2023, the Washington-based Syrian Justice & Accountability Center, which tracks human rights abuses in Syria, said its investigations had led to the arrest.
It had launched its probe after a witness told the agency in May 2020 that the suspect was living in Germany.
Europe’s biggest economy, then ruled by chancellor Angela Merkel, granted safe haven to hundreds of thousands of Syrians during the 2015-16 refugee influx.
NGOs warned at the time of the danger that militiamen accused of committing some of the most barbaric atrocities against civilians for Assad’s government were arriving incognito in Europe and obtaining asylum.
Germany has previously used the principle of universal jurisdiction, which allows the prosecution of certain grave crimes regardless of where they took place, to try Syrians over atrocities committed during the civil war.
In January 2022, Germany jailed former Syrian colonel Anwar Raslan for life in the first international trial over state-sponsored torture in Syrian prisons.
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Syria war monitor says 21 pro-Turkiye fighters killed near flashpoint northern town
December 18, 2024
BEIRUT, Lebanon: A Syria war monitor said 21 pro-Turkiye fighters were killed Wednesday after they attacked a Kurdish-held position near a flashpoint northern town despite a US-brokered ceasefire extension in the area.
The fighting between Turkish-backed factions and US-backed Kurdish-led forces comes more than a week after Islamist-led rebels toppled Syria’s longtime strongman Bashar Assad.
“At least 21 members of pro-Turkiye factions were killed and others wounded by fire from the Manbij Military Council after pro-Turkiye factions attacked” a position at the Tishreen Dam, some 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the town of Manbij, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.
The United States said on Tuesday it had brokered an extension to a fragile ceasefire in Manbij and was seeking a broader understanding with Turkiye.
The Britain-based Observatory, which has a network of sources inside Syria, said Wednesday’s attack included “support from Turkish reconnaissance aircraft” and was followed by “heavy clashes with heavy and medium weapons.”
The monitor also reported unspecified casualties among the Manbij Military Council, which is affiliated with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, as well as among SDF fighters.
The SDF said in a statement that its forces “successfully repelled” the pro-Turkiye fighters and that “after thwarting the attacks, Manbij Military Council forces initiated a combing operation in the vicinity of the Tishreen Dam and the surrounding area.”
Swathes of north and northeast Syria are controlled by a Kurdish administration whose de facto army, the SDF, spearheaded the fight that defeated Daesh group extremists in Syria in 2019.
Turkiye accuses the main component of the SDF, the People’s Protection Units (YPG), of being affiliated with Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) militants at home, whom both Washington and Ankara consider a “terrorist” group.
Ankara has staged multiple operations against the SDF since 2016, and Turkish-backed groups have captured several Kurdish-held towns in the north in recent weeks.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Tuesday that the Manbij truce, which had recently expired, had been “extended through the end of the week, and we will, obviously, look to see that ceasefire extended as far as possible into the future.”
The extension comes amid fears of an assault by Turkiye on the Kurdish-held border town of Kobani, also known as Ain Al-Arab, some 50 kilometers (30 miles) northeast of Manbij.
SDF leader Mazloum Abdi on Tuesday proposed a “demilitarised zone” in Kobani.
The military chief of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, the Islamist militant group that led the offensive that ousted Assad, said Tuesday that Kurdish-held areas of Syria would be integrated under the country’s new leadership.
While the Kurdish administration has extended a hand to the new authorities, the long-oppressed community fears it could lose hard-won gains it made during the war, including limited self-rule.
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How Damascus residents reclaimed their city after Bashar Assad’s chaotic downfall
ANAN TELLO
December 18, 2024
LONDON: The Syrian capital plunged into chaos after opposition forces swiftly toppled Bashar Assad’s regime earlier this month. Within days, as calm returned to Damascus, residents, driven by renewed pride in their city, joined forces to clean up neighborhoods and restore a semblance of normalcy despite the collapse of municipal services.
On Dec. 8, a coalition of armed opposition groups led by Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham seized control of Damascus. The city, already battered by 14 years of war, economic collapse and neglect under the ousted regime, went through a long spell of lawlessness and violence.
Witnesses described “teenagers with guns” and “unidentified armed thugs” shooting indiscriminately and looting in the city and its suburbs.
Private businesses, homes and vehicles were vandalized, while universities and public buildings bore the brunt of the unrest. Among the targeted sites were the Opera House, the Central Bank, and the Immigration and Passports building, which was set on fire.
Residents of Damascus turned to social media, urging the Military Operations Administration, the unified central command of the armed coalition, to restore order as hospitals were inundated with hundreds of surgical cases caused by stray gunfire.
The chaos prevented many medical staff from reaching hospitals, placing immense strain on those already on duty, who worked long hours without breaks or food, according to former Health Minister Ahmed Damirieh.
In a statement, Damirieh said that indiscriminate gunfire resulted in at least 450 cases at Al-Mujtahid Hospital alone and highlighted a fuel shortage affecting both public and private medical facilities.
The Military Operations Administration responded by imposing a citywide curfew from dusk to dawn on Dec. 9.
All this was happening as jubilant Syrians celebrating Assad’s downfall tore down Baathist icons and posters and toppled statues of the late Hafez Assad. Their actions contributed to mounting piles of trash in the streets, worsened by the collapse of municipal services.
Meanwhile, Israel launched dozens of airstrikes across Damascus, targeting sites such as the military airport in Mezzeh and the “security square” in Kafar Souseh, home to the General Intelligence and customs buildings, according to Syrian news media. Thick plumes of smoke rose from multiple locations across the city.
Although thrilled by the fall of Assad and hopeful for a new chapter in Syria’s history, Damascenes were disheartened by the widespread destruction after two days of chaos. Many volunteered in large numbers to reclaim and clean their neighborhoods, including the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
On Tuesday, civil society groups such as Mart Team, Ammerha Foundation, and Sanad Team for Development, along with community leaders like mosque imams and university professors, organized cleaning campaigns as calm returned to the capital. Volunteers said the efforts were largely funded through their own contributions.
“It’s our duty,” said Marwan Alrez, head of Mart Team. “We owe this to our city.”
“We launched our cleaning initiative on the third day after the fall of the (Assad) regime,” he told Arab News.
“We posted announcements on social media, and a large number of people eagerly volunteered to join.
“On the day we announced the initiative, 200 people reached out to us.”
Mart’s campaign, which continued for several days, focused on areas including the Mezzeh district, the Old City — particularly Al-Miskiyeh Square at the western gate of the iconic Umayyad Mosque — and the Muhajreen neighborhood, home to Assad’s Tishreen presidential palace, which was ransacked in the early hours after his overthrow.
“Our regular team oversaw the new volunteers and the work in general,” Alrez said, emphasizing that the campaign was “self-funded, with each of us contributing what we could.”
Volunteers with the Ammerha Foundation, eager to help restore their city, brought their own cleaning equipment to the effort.
Mohammad Abdullah Aljaddou, a civil activist and founder of Ammerha Foundation, said that after witnessing the extent of the damage and the piles of garbage in the streets, he and his team “devised a response on the spot.”
“Locals took the initiative and volunteered,” he told Arab News. “They even brought brooms, trash bags, and cleaning supplies.”
“We divided into groups,” he added, emphasizing that “most of the people were locals — not just our regular volunteers.”
The teams focused their cleaning efforts on the Al-Hejaz district, home to the historic Hejaz Railway Station; Yusuf Al-Azma Square, commonly known as Al-Mohafaza; the Al-Mujtahid neighborhood; Baramkeh near the SANA news agency; Jisr Al-Rais; Mouwasat in Mezzeh; and Abbasid Square.
Ammerha’s multi-day initiative also extended to Umayyad Square in the heart of the capital, particularly after large celebrations held there on Friday, Syria’s weekend day.
On Dec. 13, thousands of jubilant Syrians flooded the streets of Damascus, gathering in public areas such as Umayyad Square. They waved the Syrian opposition flag and chanted revolutionary slogans as loudspeakers blared celebratory music marking Assad’s fall.
Aljaddou noted that Ammerha’s efforts extended to hospitals across Damascus, including the Children’s University Hospital, Harasta, Douma, Al-Mujtahid, Al-Mouwasat and the Maternity and Gynecology Hospital.
“We distributed meals to the medical staff, each containing two sandwiches, fruit, vegetables, dates, and juice,” he said. “Local food companies also joined in, providing additional food and beverages.”
After Syrian rebel fighters freed thousands from the infamous Sednaya prison, dubbed the “human slaughterhouse,” in the Damascus countryside, many detainees — weak and suffering from diseases caused by harsh conditions — were brought to the city’s hospitals.
The influx further strained the healthcare system, already weakened by 14 years of crisis, economic sanctions, and security challenges, as families crowded hospitals and morgues in search of missing loved ones.
Ammerha’s volunteers also focused on universities, including Damascus University’s schools of humanities, law, medicine, economics and agriculture, which suffered significant damage during the first 48 hours after Assad’s fall.
“For now, the city is calm,” Aljaddou said.
Hadeel Alkadi, an agricultural engineering student at Damascus University, shared her excitement at volunteering with Ammerha to help reclaim the city.
Describing the cleaning campaigns as “more than wonderful,” she told Arab News: “The young men and women contributing to these campaigns reflect a genuine desire to rebuild their country — even if it’s by cleaning its universities, squares, and streets.”
Noting that some volunteers focused on preparing and distributing meals for medical staff, Alkadi said: “They clearly wanted to give generously to their country, from the bottom of their hearts.
“All of this fills us with hope for a better future for Syria.”
Another volunteer, Rayan Kifo, an architecture student at Damascus University, also joined efforts to restore the city.
She told Arab News that the Sanad Team, where she volunteered, organized much of the work through WhatsApp. “The supervisors would send us the location and time to gather,” she said.
“The campaign was driven by young people eager to create change and improve the country’s situation with the resources available,” Kifo said. “For the first time, we felt that this country is ours, and we are responsible for it.”
She added: “The work was tough, but it was worth it for our beloved country.
“With our determination and capabilities, we will make it better — a country free from favoritism, corruption and nepotism.
“Our country belongs to all of us Syrians, despite our differences.”
Bayan Alnakshapandy, a microbiology student at Damascus University, reflected on the deepening sense of connection she and her peers experienced while working tirelessly to clean their neighborhoods.
“Our parents always encouraged us to excel in school and university to make our country proud, but it wasn’t until that moment that we truly felt connected to our country and realized we were serving it,” she said.
Alnakshapandy volunteered with both the Sanad Team and the Syrian Community Support Team.
She told Arab News that the volunteers included “people of all ages, all backgrounds and all sects.”
According to her, many were students and highly educated individuals, including civil society leaders and university professors, “who were cleaning with their own hands.”
“One professor even brought his five-year-old son, who helped splash water on the floors and carried a broom twice his size,” Alnakshapandy said with a laugh.
Recalling her involvement, she shared a personal anecdote: “I felt jealous when I heard the teams were going to clean my old street, Pakistan Street, where I had lived for over 15 years before moving to Ain Tarma in the countryside two years ago. I had to be there with them.”
Alnakshapandy added: “I felt a strong sense of belonging because I was cleaning my own street. My heart is full.”
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Arab World
Saudi aid agency KSrelief launches pediatric surgical program in war-ravaged Sudan
December 19, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief this week launched a volunteer pediatric surgical program in the Sudanese city of Port Sudan.
By Wednesday, the medical team had assessed 15 children and carried out seven successful surgeries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Sudan is locked in a civil war between two rival factions of the country’s military government that began in April 2023. It has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced about 12 million people.
The conflict has also had a devastating effect on healthcare, with more than two-thirds of major hospitals in out of service, according to the World Health Organization.
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‘Common Ground’ festival celebrates Saudi Arabia and Iraq cultures
December 19, 2024
RIYADH: The Kingdom launched the second “Common Ground” festival on Wednesday to celebrate the rich cultures of Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Organized by the Culture Ministry, “Common Ground” features a variety of activities including art, music and folklore.
The ministry invited residents to “explore and celebrate Iraqi culture and the historical and cultural bonds between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Iraq through art, music, storytelling and more.”
The festival, which runs until Dec. 31, is being held at Mega Studio in Riyadh’s Boulevard City.
The event includes a tribute to writer Kareem Al-Iraqi, who died last year, for his contribution to art and literature, which includes novels, plays, songs and screenplays.
The opening night featured songs by renowned Iraqi singer-songwriter Kadim Al-Sahir. And Thursday will have several seminars led by heritage experts.
There will also be over 100 works from Iraqi and Saudi artists on display at the festival.
Meanwhile, in AlUla on Wednesday, Iraq’s Prime Minister Shia Al-Sudani was welcomed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for discussions on regional events.
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Riyadh governor receives newly appointed Palestinian envoy
December 18, 2024
Riyadh Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar received the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Palestine to the Kingdom Mazen Ghoneim in Riyadh on Wednesday.
During the meeting, they discussed various topics of common interest, and Prince Faisal wished the ambassador success in his new duties, Saudi Press Agency reported.
Meanwhile, on the same day, Baha Gov. Prince Hussam bin Saud bin Abdulaziz met with Ambassaor of India to the Kingdom Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan to discuss topics of mutual interest.
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Saudi, Australian defense ministers meet in Riyadh
December 18, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman on Wednesday received his Australian counterpart, Richard Marles, at his office in Riyadh.
The pair discussed relations between their countries as well as the latest developments in the region, including efforts to support security and stability, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
A number of other senior officials from the two sides attended the meeting. Marles is also Australia’s deputy prime minister.
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Riyadh events industry conference draws to a close
HEBSHI ALSHAMMARI
December 18, 2024
RIYADH: Experts in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector spoke to Arab News about the need for international collaboration and local investment on the last day of industry talks in Riyadh.
On the final day of the International MICE Summit on Tuesday, business leaders highlighted how the booming industry offered unique opportunities for job creation and investment.
The three-day event covered sector-related issues and hosted the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding.
Six Saudi ministers took part in IMS24, which was organized by the Saudi Conventions and Exhibitions General Authority. A total of 20 speaking sessions and 19 workshops were held, and eight MoUs signed.
IMS24 also witnessed companies including RX Global, Messe Munich, and Clarion announce the opening of new offices in Saudi Arabia, in preparation for 12 new events due to start in 2025.
Faisal Al-Rajhi, CEO of Almatar Travel Group, told Arab News that the Kingdom’s hosting of numerous exhibitions and conferences in recent years had helped it become a pioneering destination for the MICE industry.
Exhibitions and conferences were boosting job growth and offering local investors the chance to gain valuable insights from international experts, he added.
Mansour Al-Jabarty, CEO of YNZ, said IMS24 was an ideal platform for those seeking to gain expertise in the field and held exceptional significance given Saudi Arabia’s prominence in hosting such events.
Bilal Al-Barmawi, CEO and managing director of 1st Arabia, stressed the importance of building partnerships to increase MICE capabilities, while Ahmed Al-Saif, chairman of Max Group, added local investment in the sector had become an urgent necessity for companies seeking to go global.
The MICE segment was a key driver of economic growth, and the Saudi market was now an attractive destination for foreign investment, he added. This would not have been realized without the boom in exhibitions and conferences that the Kingdom has witnessed in recent times.
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Saudi deputy foreign minister calls Sudanese parties to commit to Jeddah talks
December 18, 2024
RIYADH: Waleed Al-Khuraiji, the Saudi deputy minister of foreign affairs, participated in the third round of Sudanese peace talks in Mauritania on Wednesday.
Al-Khuraiji affirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment toward the Sudanese people and highlighted its efforts to mediate in the ongoing conflict between warring parties, which began in April 2023 and has since displaced thousands of people in Sudan.
A month following the onset of the conflict, Saudi Arabia hosted talks in Jeddah with Sudanese parties and the US, resulting in a short-term ceasefire agreement and a commitment to protect civilians while reinstating security and stability in Sudan.
Al-Khuraiji said that “the solution to the Sudanese crisis begins with a cessation of fighting and strengthening the humanitarian response of the Sudanese people.”
He urged the Sudanese warring parties to adhere to the Jeddah agreement of May 2023, which he said serves as the foundation for Sudan’s political future, unity, and sovereignty, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Al-Khuraiji praised the Sudanese Armed Forces for extending the opening of the Adre border crossing with Chad, used by humanitarian agencies for aid delivery, as well as the opening of airports in Kassala, Ndola, and El-Obeid.
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Saudi crown prince receives Iraqi PM in AlUla
December 18, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman recieved Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani at his winter camp in AlUla on Wednesday.
The two leaders reviewed aspects of relations between their countries and ways to enhance them.
Prince Mohammed and Al-Sudani also discussed regional developments and efforts made toward them to achieve security and stability
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French politician visits Jeddah to strengthen ties, praises Vision 2030
AFSHAN AZIZ
December 18, 2024
JEDDAH: A member of parliament representing French citizens living abroad recently visited Jeddah to explore opportunities and strengthen collaboration between her country and Saudi Arabia.
President of the France-Saudi Parliamentary Friendship Group and representative of French citizens across 49 countries, Amal-Amelia Lecrafi expressed a strong interest in contributing to the ambitious goals of Vision 2030, particularly in areas such as renewable energy, smart cities and cultural industries.
She said: “I am convinced that my previous experience as a business leader in cybersecurity can help build bridges between our ecosystems. My goal is to further strengthen partnerships in the economic, technological, cultural, and educational sectors.
“Vision 2030 is an exceptional platform for developing projects in green energy, sustainable mobility, and technological innovation. Cooperation in these sectors allows France and Saudi Arabia to pool their expertise and build sustainable, innovative solutions. This collaboration also creates opportunities for Saudi youth to access high-quality training and thrive within companies across all future-oriented industries.”
During her time in Jeddah, Lecrafi also emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy as a means of fostering stronger ties. She highlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations.
“We are working on educational partnerships, such as training programs in NEOM, and on joint artistic projects to promote our shared heritage. Culture and education are key pillars for bringing our societies closer together and strengthening Francophonie in the region,” she said.
As part of her commitment to French citizens living abroad, Lecrafi outlined efforts to improve consular support and engagement. She highlighted initiatives aimed at strengthening consular services, facilitating access to French education and addressing practical challenges such as banking.
“A recurring issue we are addressing is the difficulty many expatriates face in maintaining or opening bank accounts in France,” she said. “We are actively working to resolve this challenge. Additionally, we are ensuring their integration into the local economic dynamism.”
Lecrafi also discussed the strategic importance of Saudi Arabia in the Middle East and France’s role in maintaining regional stability.
“France actively supports dialogue and stability in the region. The announcement of the June 2025 conference for the creation of a Palestinian state, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, is a strong signal of our shared determination to promote lasting peace and the recognition of two states,” she said.
She also demonstrated her admiration of the Kingdom’s progress under Vision 2030 and praised its commitment to modernization, tolerance and social progress.
She commended the rapid changes taking place, particularly the empowerment of women, and said: “Vision 2030 embodies a unique ambition to open up to the world while affirming a strong identity, resonating directly with the values of tolerance and progress.
“This vision is accompanied by an unprecedented and rapid emancipation of families, and more specifically women, serving as a shining example for the region.”
She said Saudi Arabia’s commitment to education was a reflection of Islamic values and added: “I will remain a dedicated ally to showcase these achievements and support initiatives that highlight the richness of your vision and the strength of your commitment on the global stage.”
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Europe
UN Calls for Global Support for Syria’s Reconstruction
2024-12-18
KABUL(BNA): The United Nations has appealed for international support and easing of sanctions on Syria to enable the country to recover from 14 years of civil war and initiate reconstruction efforts.
Geir Pedersen, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, addressed the Security Council after meeting with Syria’s new leadership. He emphasized the need for comprehensive political reforms and the establishment of a new constitution for lasting peace.
Pedersen also warned that ongoing clashes between Turkey-backed groups and Kurdish forces in northern Syria, as well as Israeli strikes, are significant obstacles to the peace process and must be addressed.
Meanwhile, human rights organizations have described Syria’s humanitarian crisis as the worst globally, with 17 million people in need of aid. The UN has urged the international community to increase financial assistance for humanitarian efforts and prioritize the needs of the Syrian people.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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Modern mosque rebuilding plans proposed for Blackburn
18 DEC 2024
Plans have been submitted to knock down an existing Blackburn mosque and build a modern new one in its place. The proposal has been put forward by the Jamia Syeda Fatima Al-zahra in Bank Lane.
Supporting statements submitted to Blackburn with Darwen Council say: “The site is located within the Shadsworth With Whitebirk area of Blackburn close to the M65 motorway and A679. The proposed primary vehicular and pedestrian access is off Bank Lane with a secondary pedestrian only access proposed off Shadsworth Road, both streets have a speed limit of 30mph.
“The proposed development stands as a model of architectural innovation and meticulous planning harmoniously integrating with its context on multiple levels. The proposal involves demolishing the existing structure to create a more luxurious place of worship-enhancing accommodation.
“The design revitalises the property’s character and spatial sense elevating its intrinsic value and appeal. Our approach a [sic] rejuvenation of the existing place of worship that expands on the current spatial footprint while maintaining a respectful synergy with the existing contextual milieu.
“The scheme endeavours to imbue the site with a distinct architectural character by sleek lines, open layouts, expansive windows and modern materials such as steel, glass and concrete. Further adorned with minimalist features – including external fixtures, porches, columns and asymmetry, and angular forms – the contemporary aesthetic incorporates elements like open spaces, gardens and expansive fenestration thereby exuding an air of cultivated sophistication.
“The design rationale:
“* undertakes a comprehensive rejuvenation of the extant property located at Bank Lane, meticulously tailored to align with the idiosyncratic requirements of the prospective client;
“* cultivates an elevated paradigm of a place of worship designed to appeal to connoisseurs of traditional spiritual standards thereby fortifying the long-term viability of the property
“* augment the aesthetic allure of the proposed project by a contemporaneous interpretation of modernist-inspired architectural elements thereby enhancing both spatial perception and the inherent character of the premises; and
“* breathe new life into the domicile by introducing meticulously planned landscaping elements thus mitigating the current dearth of soft landscape features on the site.
“The main material used within the proposal of stone, Dekton, RAL 9005 aluminium windows and a slated roof. The frontal elevation is orchestrated with a nuanced symmetry.
“Positioned centrally the core atrium serves as an axial fulcrum flanked on either side by symmetrically configured gables hat project outward.”
Source: lancs.live
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https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/modern-mosque-rebuilding-plans-proposed-30617624
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Drone footage of new Issa Foundation mosque in Blackburn
19th December
New drone footage shows how work has developed at one of Blackburn's biggest construction projects of recent years.
The new mosque, in Preston New Road, will act as a place of worship for people living in the local neighbourhoods and is being financed by billionaire EG Group founders Mohsin and Zuber Issa through their charitable arm the Issa Foundation.
Footage by Dan Conway Photography shows much of the exterior work to the mammoth project complete.
An adjoining community building and offices were completed first before the distinctive dome and minarets went up in the past year.
Landscaping on the surrounding land cannot be seen from the road but the footage shows how areas around the mosque have been developed into car parks.
The boundary of the site is shielded by trees with one main entrance from Preston New Road.
The EG Group headquarters on Haslingden Road was recognised for its focus on sustainability with rows of solar panels placed on top of the building.
It appears the new mosque complex will follow in those footsteps, with solar panels on the office building and the mosque will also have panels placed on the roof.
The footage also catches a glimpse of the adjoining New Springfield Care Home.
The mosque backs onto homes at the top section of Buncer Lane and is opposite one of the most historic buildings in town - the St Silas Church.
Westholme School used to have buildings on the site but these were demolished and plans were revealed for the mosque in December 2020.
The £5 million scheme was approved in mid-2021 but it is unsure what the cost for the final structures will be and if it has kept to budget.
The facility will aim to serve those living around the areas of Revidge, Corporation Park and Beardwood.
It will be the seventh mosque within walking distance of the area to meet the demands of the community and alleviate some of the congestion, traffic and parking problems that can be witnessed during busy periods.
Source: lancashiretelegraph.co.uk
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https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/24804425.stunning-drone-footage-reveals-new-issa-foundation-mosque/
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Verdicts due for 51 men in Pelicot mass rape trial that shook France
19 Dec, 2024
Judges in the French city of Avignon will hand down verdicts on 51 men on Thursday in a mass rape trial that has turned a 72-year-old woman into a feminist icon.
For almost a decade, Gisèle Pelicot was drugged by her ex-husband Dominique, who then invited dozens of men he had recruited online to have sex with her in her bed at home while she was unconscious and unaware.
It was her decision to waive her anonymity and throw this trial into the open - in her words, making "shame swap sides" from the victim to the rapist.
Although he admits the charges against him, most of the other men on trial deny what they did was rape.
Prosecutors have asked for jail sentences ranging from four years to 20 years, the maximum sentence for a charge of aggravated rape.
One of the defendants, who has admitted the charges, has said the trial was rushed and "botched".
Campaigners say this case proves the need for consent to be built into France's rape laws, as in other European countries.
What is the case all about?
From 2011 to 2020, Dominique Pelicot plied his wife with tranquilising drugs and sleeping pills without her knowledge, crushed them into powder and added them to her food and drink.
Gisèle Pelicot suffered memory loss and blackouts because of the drugs and she has spoken of 10 years of her life that have been lost.
He was eventually caught because a security guard reported him to police for taking photographs under women's skirts in a supermarket.
"I thought we were a close couple," she once told the court. Instead, her husband was going on a notorious but now banned website called Coco.fr to invite local men to their home to have sex with her while she was comatose.
"I was sacrificed on the altar of vice," Gisèle Pelicot said early in the trial.
Since the start of September, Judge Roger Arata and his four colleagues have heard how 50 men, now aged between 27 and 74, visited the Pelicots' home in the village of Mazan.
Who are the accused?
Dominique Pelicot has admitted all the charges against him - drugging and raping his wife and recruiting dozens of men to rape her. Prosecutors want the judges to hand him the maximum 20-year jail term for aggravated rape.
"I am a rapist," he has told the judges. "I acknowledge all the facts [of the case] in their entirety." He has begged his ex-wife and three children for forgiveness, but his actions have torn the Pelicot family apart.
The other defendants come from all walks of life and most of them are from a 50km (30-mile) radius of the Pelicots' village of Mazan. The fact they are firefighters, security guards and lorry drivers has earned them the name Monsieur-Tout-Le-Monde (Mr Everyman). Most of them have children too.
Fifty of the 51 are accused of aggravated rape and attempted rape.
Romain V, 63, is facing 18 years in prison if found guilty. He is accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot on six separate occasions while knowing he was HIV-positive. His lawyer says he could not have passed on the infection as he had years of treatment.
Another 10 men could face sentences of 15-17 years, and prosecutors are seeking jail terms of 10-14 years for 38 of the others.
Ahead of the verdicts, one of the few men who has admitted rape told the BBC through his daughter that many people had made up their minds right away: "There was not enough time. For me it was botched work."
The average jail term for rape in France is 11.1 years, according to the French justice ministry.
One man is accused of aggravated sexual assault rather than rape. Prosecutors say Joseph C, a retired sports coach and grandfather of 69, should face the lightest sentence of four years in prison.
Some of them have apologised for their behaviour, but many have not.
Cyril B said he was sorry to Gisèle Pelicot.
"I'm ashamed of myself, I'm disgusted," said Jean-Pierre M this week. His lawyer hoped that the judges would take account of his contrition.
What makes this case unusual?
Not only has this case been held in full view of the public, but the evidence against all the accused was recorded on video by Dominique Pelicot at the time and then played out in court.
Gisèle Pelicot, who has divorced her husband, said the men "treated me like a rag doll". "Don't talk to me about sex scenes. These are rape scenes," she said.
Therefore none of those accused has been able to challenge the allegation that they were in Gisèle Pelicot's room while she was comatose.
Their defence has relied on the definition of rape, because it currently involves any kind of sexual penetration "by violence, coercion, threat, or surprise". That means prosecutors must prove intent to rape.
Public prosecutor Laure Chabaud told the court that no-one could say any more that "since she didn't say anything, she gave her consent - that belongs to a bygone age".
Thousands of people have joined protests in support of Gisèle Pelicot in France. And women have stood outside the court every day chanting one of the phrases her lawyers said in court: "Shame is changing sides."
Why has Gisèle Pelicot become so important?
Gisèle Pelicot has attended almost every day of the trial, appearing at the court in her sunglasses just before nine o'clock.
Her decision to waive her anonymity is highly unusual, but she has stood firm at every moment. "I want all women who have been raped to say: Madame Pelicot did it, I can too."
But she has been clear that behind her facade of strength "lies a field of ruins" and despite the widespread acclaim for what she has done, she is a reluctant hero.
"She keeps repeating, 'I am normal,' she does not want to be considered as an icon," her lawyer Stéphane Babonneau has told the BBC's Emma Barnett.
"Women generally have a strength in them that they can't even imagine and that they have to trust themselves. That's her message."
How this case has shaken France
Lawyers for the 51 defendants have highlighted the ordinary lives they led, although a court-appointed psychiatrist Laurent Layet testified that they were neither ordinary nor "monsters".
In the early weeks of the trial, the then mayor of the village of Mazan told the BBC that the case could have been far more serious as nobody died.
But those remarks provoked an outcry across France and the mayor quickly apologised. He has since said he is withdrawing from public life.
The fact the trial has been held in public has meant every session has been reported at length and in detail.
Elsa Labouret of activist group Dare to be Feminist told the BBC: "[Gisèle Pelicot] decided to make this bigger than herself. To make this about the way we, as a society, treat sexual violence."
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c390d8nd4n4o
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Russia detains Uzbek man over general's killing in Moscow
19 Dec, 2024
Russia's authorities say a 29-year-old man from Uzbekistan has been detained over the killing of senior general Igor Kirillov and his assistant in Moscow.
Lt Gen Igor Kirillov, head of the Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection Forces, was outside a residential block early on Tuesday when an explosive device hidden in an electric scooter was detonated remotely, the authorities say.
Russia's Investigative Committee (SK) says the suspect - who has not been publicly named - has admitted he was recruited by Ukrainian special services. The SK provided no evidence to back its claim.
Ukraine's security service SBU had already claimed it was behind the killing, a source told the BBC on Tuesday.
The Ukrainian source said Kirillov, 54, was "a legitimate target" and alleged he had carried out war crimes.
On Monday, the day before the killing, Ukraine charged the Russian general in absentia, saying he was "responsible for the mass use of banned chemical weapons". Moscow denies the allegations.
A Kremlin spokesman said Russian President Vladimir Putin "expresses deep condolences" over Kirillov's death, Russian state-run news agency Tass reported.
In a statement on Wednesday, the SK said the detained man - born in 1995 - was a citizen of Uzbekistan.
It said he was "suspected of committing a terrorist act" and that during interrogation, "he explained that he was recruited by the Ukrainian special services".
The explosive device had been placed on the scooter parked near the entrance to the residential building where Kirillov lived, the SK said.
To monitor the location, the suspect had rented a car, where he installed a video camera that was livestreaming to the attack organisers in Ukraine's city of Dnipro, the investigative committee added.
When Kirillov and his assistant Ilya Polikarpov left the building, the explosive device was remotely activated, the statement said.
Meanwhile, Russia's Federal Security Services (FSB) published a video of the suspect's interrogation.
In the footage, a dark-haired man wearing handcuffs with what appears to be a visible rip in his coat is seen speaking directly to the camera.
He is heard saying in Russian that he had been offered a reward of $100,000 and a European passport in exchange for killing Kirillov.
The FSB added that on Ukraine's instructions, he arrived in Moscow and received a homemade explosive device.
It is unclear whether the suspect's confession was made under duress.
Kirillov is thought to be the most senior military figure assassinated inside Russia since President Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
As well as being charged by Ukraine, Kirillov had previously been sanctioned by the UK over the alleged use of chemical weapons in Ukraine.
Ukraine's SBU security service has claimed Russia used chemical weapons more than 4,800 times under the general's leadership.
Moscow denies this and says it destroyed the last remainder of its vast chemical weapons stockpile in 2017.
Pictures from the scene outside Kirillov's apartment block in south-eastern Moscow on Tuesday showed the badly damaged entrance, with scorch marks on the walls and a number of windows blown out. Two body bags could also be seen on the street.
Also on Wednesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Russia would raise Kirillov's assassination at the meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Friday.
Russian officials have vowed to find and punish those involved in the killing.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cge9rv38x98o
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France's ex-President Sarkozy loses corruption case appeal
19 Dec, 2024
France's highest court has upheld a corruption conviction against former President Nicolas Sarkozy, brushing aside his appeal.
Wednesday's ruling by the Cour de Cassation means that Sarkozy - who was in power from 2007 to 2012 - must now wear an electronic monitoring bracelet for a year.
Sarkozy, 69, reacted by saying he was not prepared to accept "the profound injustice" and would now turn to the European Court of Human Rights to challenge the verdict.
He was originally sentenced to three years in jail in 2021, but two of those years were suspended and the third converted to electronic monitoring instead of prison.
Sarkozy was convicted of trying to bribe a judge in 2014, after he had left office, by suggesting he could secure a prestigious job for him in return for information about a separate case.
In the 2021 ruling, Judge Christine Mée said the conservative politician "knew what [he] was doing was wrong", adding that his actions and those of his lawyer had given the public "a very bad image of justice".
The crimes were specified as influence-peddling and violation of professional secrecy.
Speaking after Wednesday's verdict by the Cour de Cassation, Sarkozy's lawyer, Patrice Spinosi, said his client would comply with the conviction terms.
Sarkozy has now exhausted all his legal options in France, and his planned appeal to the European Court of Human Rights will not delay the verdict from being carried out.
The 2021 conviction was a legal landmark for post-war France.
The only precedent was the trial of Sarkozy's predecessor Jacques Chirac, who got a two-year suspended sentence in 2011 for having arranged bogus jobs at Paris city hall for allies when he was Paris mayor. Chirac died in 2019.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c047r4kreg3o\
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South Asia
Afghanistan, Turkmenistan Accelerating Efforts On TAPI Project
December 19, 2024
The TAPI project is considered a ray of hope for Afghanistan’s economic revival and regional cooperation, alongside other forthcoming infrastructure projects like CASA-1000.
Afghanistan’s acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mawlvi Amir Khan Muttaqi, and Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov reviewed early this week the progress of major energy, transport, and infrastructure projects involving Turkmenistan and Afghanistan. They both inspected the ongoing construction of the Afghanistan section of the Turkmenistan-AfghanistanPakistan-India (TAPI) natural gas pipeline and agreed to accelerate its implementation. The resumption and acceleration of construction work on the TAPI pipeline on Afghanistan soil marks a significant milestone for regional connectivity and economic growth in South and Central Asia. In September, the Islamic Emirate and Turkmenistan officials launched the TAPI project considered as the biggest gas pipeline project in the region. The acceleration of practical work on Afghanistan’s segment of the 1,821-kilometer pipeline will transform the region’s energy landscape. This gas pipeline project promises to deliver 33 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually while creating thousands of jobs and generating close to $1 billion in annual revenue for Afghanistan. As part of the visit, the Turkmen foreign minister and Afghanistan acting minister of foreign affairs also inspected the construction of a fiber-optic communication line and a warehouse complex at the dry port of Torgundi railway station, located in Afghanistan’s northern Herat Province. They also assessed progress on the TorgundiSanabar section of the Torgundi-Herat railroad. The TAPI project is considered a ray of hope for Afghanistan’s economic revival and regional cooperation, alongside other forthcoming infrastructure projects like CASA-1000. Since the Islamic Emirate’s takeover of the country, the commencement of the TAPI project on Afghan soil is considered one of the major achievements of the Islamic Emirate. Moreover, the revival of the TAPI pipeline also holds significant potential for all the respective countries, particularly Afghanistan as there will be a significant boost to the country’s economic growth and development and will generate thousands of job opportunities in the country. Besides, the southwest region of Afghanistan will transform into an economic hub, with the implementation of the TAPI project facilitating the construction of gas infrastructure, electricity networks, railways, and roads, further enhancing the country’s economic potential. As the TAPI pipeline marks a major advancement in regional energy cooperation, its success hinges on the stability and security of Afghanistan and the region. The project’s long-term viability will rely on sustained collaboration among Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. By ensuring a secure environment and fostering strong partnerships, the TAPI pipeline has the potential to become a cornerstone for economic development, energy security, and regional integration, benefiting all participating nations. There are hopes that practical construction work on the gas pipeline will further accelerate as Afghanistan is already prepared for this project implemented. Jawed Hussain
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/afghanistan-turkmenistan-accelerating-efforts-on-tapi-project/
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Yunus arrives in Cairo to join D-8 summit
Dec 19, 2024
Kuala Lumpur is looking forward to closer ties with Dhaka in order to work together in addressing the Rohingya refugee crisis, Malaysian Minister for Higher Education Zambry Abdul Kadir said in a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus yesterday.
Kadir called on Prof Yunus at the St Regis Hotel in the Egyptian capital of Cairo where the leaders of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation known as Developing-8 or D-8 have gathered for a summit, according to the Chief Adviser's Press Wing.
They discussed issues of mutual interest between the two countries, including the recruitment of Bangladeshis in Malaysia, the expansion of higher education ties, the Rohingya crisis, and the possibility of Bangladesh joining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Kadri, who is also a champion of microcredit, said Kuala Lumpur would continue to support Bangladesh, including in the Rohingya humanitarian crisis and Bangladesh's inclusion as a sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN.
The chief adviser said he proposed an international conference on the Rohingya crisis, and he expects Malaysia to extend support to the move.
He said more than 80,000 new Rohingyas have entered Bangladesh in recent months after the latest bout of violence gripped Myanmar's Rakhine state, which has been home to the Rohingya people for centuries.
Prof Yunus said he also favoured creating a UN-supervised safe zone for the displaced people in Rakhine state in an effort to assist the violence-plagued region.
During the talks, Prof Yunus said his government planned to hold elections by the first half of 2026.
The summit in Cairo, starting today, is being held under the theme "Investing in Youth and Supporting SMEs: Shaping Tomorrow's Economy".
The D-8, founded in 1997, promotes development cooperation among its member states.
These states include major Muslim-majority countries such as Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey, which, according to some estimates, comprise about 14 percent of the global population.
On the sidelines of the summit, Prof Yunus is likely to hold bilateral meetings with the heads of the government of some D-8 member states, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Prof Yunus, who reached Egypt on a two-day visit yesterday, will also deliver a speech at Al-Azhar University in Cairo today.
He will address the Egyptian university at the invitation of Al-Azhar Al Sharif's Grand Imam Ahmed Eltayeb, BSS reported, citing the chief adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder.
Mohamed Shimi, the Egyptian minister of public business sector, received Prof Yunus at Cairo International Airport upon the chief adviser's arrival in Cairo at 11:00 am. Later, Prof Yunus held a brief meeting with the minister.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/yunus-arrives-cairo-join-d-8-summit-3779226
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4 killed in clash over control of Ijtema ground
Dec 19, 2024
At least four people were killed and 50 others injured early yesterday in a clash between two factions of Tabligh Jamaat over control of the Ijtema Maidan, a large field in Tongi where thousands of Muslim devotees congregate every year.
The clash broke out between the followers of two Tabligh leaders -- Maulana Zubair Ahmad and Maulana Saad -- around 3:00am, said Iskander Habibur Rahman, officer-in-charge of Tongi West Police Station.
After meeting leaders of both groups at the Secretariat, Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said four people were killed in the incident.
A senior police officer, requesting anonymity, said three people died in the early hours, while another died in the morning.
Officials said the two factions blamed each other for the violence.
Against this backdrop, Dhaka Metropolitan Police imposed a ban from 2:00pm onwards on all forms of gatherings, processions, and rallies in Kamarpara, Abdullahpur, Uttara Sector-10, and the areas along the banks of the Turag.
Border guards and army personnel have been deployed in the area.
Zubair's supporters said Saad followers attacked them with knives, hammers, and cricket stumps after 3:00am when they were fast asleep.
Saad followers, on the other hand, told reporters that while they were preparing to go to sleep in their tents by the road between Kamarpara and Sluice Gate, Zubair's men attacked them around 3:30am.
Teams of law enforcers have also been deployed near Kakrail Masjid, the headquarters of Zubair-faction in the capital.
HOW THE CLASH ERUPTED
According to locals, Saad followers were trying to enter the Ijtema ground to hold a five-day "Jor-Ijtema" from December 20.
As Zubair followers were already there, Saad followers failed to enter the field. And stayed outside. After 3:00am, hundreds of devotees crossed the Kamarpara Bridge and entered the Ijtema ground. Zubair followers then tried to stop them, leading to a clash, said locals.
Locals and witnesses said Zubair supporters threw brick chunks at Saad followers who retaliated.
For almost an hour, the groups hurled bricks and stones at each other. Saad followers eventually forced Zubair's men to leave.
In a video message around 4:30am, Muaz bin Noor, who is known as a Saad supporter, said, "We are now in control of the Ijtema Maidan. One of our brothers has been martyred in an attack by Zubair followers."
Officials identified three of the deceased as Aminul Islam Bachchu, 70, of Kishoreganj; Taizul Islam, 65, of Bogura; and Belal Hossain, 60, of Dhaka. They could not identify the other victim as of filing this report at 12:30am today.
At least 40 injured individuals were treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, according to sources.
After meeting the home adviser, Mamunul Haque, secretary general of Khelafat Majlish and a follower of Zubair, told reporters, "Zubair's supporters do not want chaos. Many have termed it a clash between the two factions. But it's not. Rather, Saad's men inflicted casualties on us. Those involved in the murders should be arrested by today. There is video footage of those involved."
In 2017, a rift developed between the leaders of Tabligh Jamaat, the organiser of the Biswa Ijtema. Factions of Zubair, based in Kakrail Masjid, and Saad, who is from India, later organised Ijtema in two phases.
The feud came to light in November 2017 when two factions clashed at Kakrail. The following year, there was a clash between the two factions over gaining control of the Kakrail Masjid.
In July 2018, late Hefazat-e-Islam leader Ahmad Shafi, popularly known as Maulana Shafi, formally extended support to the Zubair faction.
MEETINGS AT SECRETARIAT
Home Adviser Jahangir held separate meetings with leaders of both groups.
Reza Arif and several others from Saad group, held a nearly one and a half hours long meeting with the adviser starting at 11:00am. Advisers of the ministries of land, industries, information, and religious affairs, and special assistant to the chief adviser on defence and national integration development, and special assistant to the home adviser attended the meeting.
After the meeting, Reza said, "Of course, we, as Muslims and citizens of the country, regret what happened. A fight between Muslims and Muslims is not right. We sincerely apologise. I request my fellow devotees to leave the [Ijtema] ground."
He added that the advisers requested the leaders to vacate the ground to prevent further escalation of tension.
"We decided to leave the place so that no more problems arise," he said.
He expressed hope that Zubair's men would also leave the ground.
"We will make every effort necessary to ensure no such incident happens in the future."
Later in the day, the advisers held a meeting with Zubair followers led by Mamunul Haque.
After 2:30pm, Mamunul along with the home adviser addressed the media.
He described Saad followers as terrorists and demanded a ban on their activities.
Mamunul said, "The Ijtema of the Zubair followers will definitely be held. But there is no scope for Saad followers to hold Ijtema."
The home adviser said if the two sides solve the problems through talks, then the Saad followers would be able to participate in Ijtema.
The government has not cancelled the date of Ijtema, he said, adding "Let them discuss."
The adviser further said that the attackers would face justice. "There is no scope to spare killers under any circumstances."
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/crime-justice/news/4-killed-clash-over-control-ijtema-ground-3778991
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44 Dead, 76 Injured in Ghazni Traffic Accidents
2024-12-19
GHAZNI (BNA): Late last night, two devastating traffic accidents occurred along the Kabul-Kandahar highway in Ghazni, leading to a tragic loss of life and numerous injuries.
Initial reports indicate that the collisions involved two passenger buses, a freight truck, and a fuel tanker in separate incidents at Shahbaz in Ghazni’s center and Nani in Andar district.
According to Mullah Hamidullah Nisar, head of Ghazni’s Department of Information and Culture, the current death toll stands at 44, with 76 others injured. However, these figures remain unconfirmed as the situation is still being assessed.
Among the injured, several are reported to be in critical condition, with efforts underway to provide urgent medical care.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/44-dead-76-injured-in-ghazni-traffic-accidents/
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Kam Air Launches Inaugural Direct Flights Between Kabul and Doha
2024-12-18
KABUL(BNA): Kam Air has officially inaugurated its first direct flights connecting Kabul and Doha, marking a significant development in aviation ties between Afghanistan and Qatar.
According to a statement from the Islamic Emirate’s embassy in Doha, the maiden flight landed at Doha International Airport, where it was warmly received by Dr. Mohammad Naeem, Acting Ambassador of Afghanistan to Qatar, along with embassy staff and Hamad Al-Khater, the head of Doha Airport.
Dr. Naeem described the launch as an important step towards strengthening and expanding relations between the two nations. He added that the Islamic Emirate remains committed to facilitating better services for the Afghan people in various sectors.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/kam-air-launches-inaugural-direct-flights-between-kabul-and-doha/
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63 Million AFN Allocated for 15 Water Management Projects in Maidan Wardak
2024-12-18
KABUL(BNA) The Ministry of Energy and Water announced the completion of 15 water management projects in Maidan Wardak Province during the ongoing fiscal year 1403. These projects, valued at approximately 63 million Afghanis, aim to improve water infrastructure in the province.
According to the Ministry, the projects include small dams, weirs, canals, retaining walls, and water supply networks. These were implemented in Maidan Wardak’s central areas and districts such as Behsud, Hissa-e-Awal Behsud, Daimirdad, Chak, Jaghatu, Nirkh, and Sayedabad.
Additionally, surveys and designs for 33 more projects, including small dams and canals, have been completed. These initiatives were funded by the Ministry of Energy and Water, the FAO, and charitable organizations under the supervision of the Maidan Wardak Directorate of Energy and Water.
The projects are expected to enhance water access and support agricultural and economic development in the region.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/63-million-afn-allocated-for-15-water-management-projects-in-maidan-wardak/
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Islamic Emirate Ambassador Meets with Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission Chairman
2024-12-18
KABUL(BNA): Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb, the Acting Ambassador of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in Islamabad, held a meeting with Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Chairman of Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC), to address various challenges faced by Afghan students in Pakistani universities.
According to a statement from the Afghanistan Embassy in Islamabad, the discussions focused on issues such as scholarship provisions, student visas, accommodation, short-term academic programs, and challenges related to the enrollment of new students.
Dr. Ahmad reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to addressing these issues in coordination with relevant authorities. He also emphasized the importance of fostering bilateral cooperation between the universities of both countries to enhance capacity building and create necessary educational facilities within Afghanistan.
The HEC chairman assured the Afghanistan envoy of all possible efforts to resolve the outlined challenges through effective collaboration with Pakistani institutions.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/islamic-emirate-ambassador-meets-with-pakistans-higher-education-commission-chairman/
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/temples-hindu-muslim-sambhal/d/134076